With spring break fast approaching, it would be easy for the ISU tennis team to overlook its next meet.

Head coach Michelle Conlon, however, knows her team will be prepared when the Cyclones face the Texas Tech Red Raiders on Saturday.

“These players commit and dedicate so much of their time to practicing, building team unity and strength training that I know they will are going to be focused,” Conlon said. “They are not going to look too far ahead in their schedules and risk giving up everything that they have worked so hard for.”

Texas Tech (7-4) may find itself at a disadvantage. Just 26 hours prior to facing the Cyclones, the Red Raiders will be in Lincoln, Neb., competing in their first conference meet of the season.

The Cyclones (3-4, 0-2 Big 12), on the other hand, will be well rested, since their last meet occurred more than a week ago. In that contest, the Cyclones were defeated by Baylor, 6-1.

Despite the loss to the No. 4 Lady Bears, Conlon felt the positives of playing a top-echelon opponent far outweighed the negatives.

“In any sport, facing good competition makes your own team better. We came away from that meet knowing that we should feel good with ourselves since we fought very hard,” Conlon said. “After their performance, I am excited to see how they go out and compete this Saturday.”

The meet is scheduled to begin at 3:30 at the Ames Racquet and Fitness Center. Admission to the meet is free.