Feb. 8, 2007
NORMAL, Ill. -
The Illinois State women's tennis team returns to the courts on Friday in non-conference action against Butler at the Evergreen Racquet Club in Bloomington, Ill. First serve between the `Birds and the Bulldogs is scheduled for 7 p.m.
The dual match against Butler is the second of the season for ISU. In the opener on January 26, the Redbirds (1-0) defeated in-state rival Eastern Illinois, 4-3.
"We're looking forward to getting back on the courts and competing on a regular basis," head coach Chris Hoover said. "This match gives us a great opportunity to improve our competitiveness throughout the lineup and regain our focus."
Butler, led by head coach Jason Suscha, currently stands at 1-4 on the season. The Bulldogs lost their first four matches and recorded their lone victory on Feb. 4, against UW-Milwaukee, 5-2, in their Horizon League opener.
Last season, ISU recorded its first win of the season on the road at Butler. The Redbirds defeated the Bulldogs, 6-1, by sweeping the doubles matches and winning five of six in singles competition.
"Butler is a much improved program," Hoover said. "They always play us really tough and I expect another highly competitive match tomorrow."
Friday's contest is the second of a four-match homestand that kicks off the spring season. The Redbirds will return to the ERC on Fri., Feb. 16, at 6 p.m. against IUPUI.
