April 13, 2012
NORMAL, Ill. -
The Illinois State men's tennis team will continue its road to conference as they take on Wichita State Sunday at the Coleman Tennis Complex in Wichita, Ka. Play is set to begin at 10 a.m.
Illinois State and Wichita State have developed an intense rivalry, as their matches have been incredibly close the past few years. While the Redbirds lost in 2009, 4-3, they came out on top in 2010 as well as 2011, 4-3.
"I think our rivalry with Wichita State can affect our play in both directions," said James. "I think we get more amped up and focused because it's a match we really want to win, but also we have to be careful not to get too amped up, to the point of stress, because that can affect us negatively. We have to be prepared to maintain our composure against them."
The pressure of each match counting towards Illinois State's place in conference is resulting in a change of focus and an increase in determination for the Redbirds.
"Right now the main focus is to play and compete consistently," said James. "If we are passionate and fighting hard each match, then I know we have the players to end up with a successful result."
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