The Illinois State womens tennis team will enjoy the comforts of home as it begins a seven-match home stand playing IUPUI Friday, and Valparaiso Saturday. The Redbirds bring a 5-6 record into the back-to-back weekend match-ups, which mark the final two non-conference competitions before league play begins.
Fridays match, originally scheduled to be played outdoors at McCormick Courts, has been moved to the Birds indoor home at the Evergreen Racquet Club due to weather. The location of Saturdays match, also originally scheduled for McCormick Courts, is weather pending. Head coach Chris Hoover is anxious for the Birds to hit the outdoor courts, and also feels fortunate the team has two more chances to play solid competition before the Missouri Valley Conference season begins.
I know Illinois weather in March is unpredictable, said Hoover. But Im anxious for us to get outside soon and get started on that leg of the season. I really feel fortunate we have two more opportunities to see some good teams and play good matches before we face the competition our conference provides.
Weve been doing a lot on the court in practice, Hoover continued. Right now were excited to get out and play, play, play. I think our mission is clear to the team, our directives are defined and hopefully IUPUI and Valparaiso can present us with some good competition.
Tennis action gets underway Friday at 7 p.m. at the Evergreen Racquet Club, while Saturdays match, tentatively scheduled at McCormick Courts, will begin at 1 p.m.
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