CLEVELAND, Tenn. - The University of North Georgia (UNG) women's golf team sits tied for ninth after the opening round of the NCAA Division II South Regional at Cleveland Country Club on Monday.

The Nighthawks posted a team score of 310 (+22) through 18 holes, placing them in a tie for ninth in a competitive field. No. 6 Lynn holds the early lead, building a five-stroke advantage over the next closest team following day one.

North Georgia was paced by Ellie Jane Riner and Camryn Wright, who each carded rounds of 76 (+4) to lead the squad. Mackenzie Connell, Cora Mount and Abby Franks all finished the day at 79 (+7), rounding out the Nighthawks' scoring efforts.

Top-ranked Wingate is second at 299, tied with No.23 Erskine while No. 11 Tampa is fourth at 301. No. 3 Anderson and No. 10 Barry round out the top five after matching scores of 302. 

The top four finishing teams will advance to the 2026 NCAA Division II Championship on May 12-16 at PGA National Resort in Palm Beach Gardens, Fla.

Due to inclement weather expected in the area Wednesday, the tournament schedule has been adjusted, with teams set to play 36 holes with an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start on Tuesday to complete the regional.