Oct. 14, 2013

Singles Results

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. - The Illini women's tennis program wrapped up action at the ITA Midwest Regional Championships on Monday. Melissa Kopinski lost a hard-fought, three-set match in her quarterfinal match with Michigan's Sarah Lee. For the tournament, Kopinski and two Illini doubles teams advanced to the quarterfinals, while three Illinois singles players advanced to the Round of 16.

"Melissa looked strong and fit," head coach Michelle Dasso said. "Unfortunately, an opportunity slipped by Melissa today, but I'm pleased with her progress and excited for her future."

Kopinski won second- and third-round matchups to advance to this morning's quarterfinal match against Lee, who is ranked No. 59 nationally. After winning the first set 6-2, Kopinski dropped the second set 2-6 to send the match to a decisive third set. Kopinski battled back and won a break to fight back from a 5-2 deficit in the third set, but Lee hung on for a 6-4 victory.

Earlier in the tournament, Kopinski also advanced to the quarterfinals in doubles. Kopinski and partner Allison Falkin were seeded third in the draw and were one of two Illini doubles teams to advance to the quarterfinals. Misia Kedzierski and freshman Louise Kwong had a strong showing, winning convincing 8-3 and 8-2 matches to reach the quarterfinals.

The Illini started with five players in the 64-player Midwest Regionals singles draw, and three reached the Round of 16 or further. Falkin and Alexis Casati reached the Round of 16, along with Melissa Kopinski, who advanced to the quarterfinals. With Casati's 2-1 record for the tournament, she improved her singles record to 6-1 in her young career.

With Lousie Kwong's 2-1 showing in the qualifying round, the Illini went 8-6 at the tournament in singles and 5-3 in doubles. The tournament wraps up Tuesday with the singles championship match.

UP NEXT: The Illini host the Midwest Blast on Nov. 1-3 at the Atkins Tennis Center.