Getting back into the swing of things, the ISU tennis team heads to the Florida Gulf Coast Invitational in Fort Myers, Fla., to begin its spring season.

Coach Armando Espinosa said this meet is not about results but is a chance to get back in play, prepare for later meets, try out some new doubles pairings and head toward a change in weather.

“In terms of results, I’m looking for anyone to do extremely well and, coming out of a month break, it’s going to be hard for them to come out and be ready to roll the first time they strike the ball,” Espinosa said. “I think there are going to be some individuals that, regardless of what happened with break or anything, are going to come out ready to play. But, it’s going to take a little bit of time to get used to the competition again.”

Both ISU tennis coaches look at this meet as a way to get some experience and pull out of the long break before facing their Iowa rivals in the Cy-Hawk Series that is quickly approaching.

“Mostly, [we] are just looking for them to get back in shape,” said assistant coach Rodrigo Puebla. “We have not played a full match since November. So, it is going to be a good place and a good time for them to get back into things and try to get ready for next week, which is Iowa.”

The biggest challenge, beyond having been away from the game for a while, will be a change in weather for the Cyclones to warm and humid. The team has yet to acclimate itself to playing in the heat this year, which may be a challenge for its endurance.

“Getting to play outside, it’s going to be a lot different than playing inside. We are used to playing outside for the Big 12. So, I think it will be a good opportunity for us to get a jump on the season and get a lot of matches in,” said Jenna Langhorst. “It’s supposed to be really hot; so, I think it will definitely test our endurance.”

The team, which is guaranteed to get to play at least three matches at this tournament, will get a jump start on outdoor play, conditioning, endurance training and a chance to prepare to face Iowa.

“It’s a little bit of preparation for us to [have them] put some pressure on themselves about competing but at the same time try to gear their conditioning to last a little bit longer so that when we come back, and we face Iowa, we’re going to be in better condition,” Espinosa said.