TYLER, Texas (September 28, 2024) – The Lubbock Christian University men's tennis team concluded a strong three-day run at the ITA South Central Regional, hosted by UT Tyler at the Summers Tennis Center. While no Chaparrals earned automatic bids for the ITA Cup in Rome, Ga., several players advanced to the latter rounds, keeping their hopes alive for at-large selections.
Singles Performances
The Chaparrals had notable performances across the singles draw.
Kelly Giese and
Pablo Segura led the way, both reaching the semifinals after impressive wins. Giese, who is 5-2 in individual tournament play (in singles) this season, fought through two tough three-set matches, including a comeback victory over Juan David Duque from Midwestern State (4-6, 6-3, 6-4), and a hard-fought win against Lucas Nitzschke from UT Permian Basin (6-2, 3-6, 6-3) in the quarterfinals. His run ended with a 6-4, 6-4 loss to Bruno Sanchez of Midwestern State in the semis.
Segura also reached the semifinals after defeating UT Tyler's Daniil Felker (6-4, 6-4) in the quarterfinals, before falling to Carel Wessel of UT Tyler in a tight contest, 7-6 (7-4), 6-3. Segura is the first Chap to reach double-figures in wins, as he is 10-1 on the season in singles (7-1 in individual tournaments).
LCU also had strong showings in the quarterfinals, with
Blas Ruiz Romero (7-1 this season in individual tournament play) making a deep run before losing to Sanchez, and
Alexandre Sulpicy advancing before falling to Felker.
Doubles Highlights
In doubles play, the team of
Blas Ruiz Romero and
Alexandre Sulpicy advanced to the final of the consolation bracket. After a series of strong victories, they ultimately fell to Midwestern State's Juan David Duque and Jose Marquez 8-3.
Looking Ahead
While no Chaparrals automatically qualified for the ITA Cup, LCU awaits news of potential at-large selections for the national tournament, which will take place in October in Rome, Georgia. The ITA Cup is an annual event and the highest form of individual championships (singles and doubles), as the NCAA postseason uses dual formats.