With a two-week break between competitions, the ISU women’s tennis team is ready to begin conference play against two elite Big 12 teams.

The Cyclones pull into College Station, Texas, Friday to take on No. 17 Texas A&M, and they will continue play in the state Saturday as they travel to No. 16 Texas.

It will be a tough challenge for the Cyclones after earning their first win of the season in a 7-0 victory over Gustavus Adolphus two weeks ago.

“I thought they played more aggressive in their singles matches,” head coach Michele Conlon said. “I’m proud of how they played. They closed out their matches, which isn’t always easy to do.”

Conlon was impressed with the play of sophomore Eve Soriano, who started the Cyclones off with a victory heading into singles play.

“Eve played intense matches throughout the day,” Conlon said. “She steamrolled ahead and was really on. She’s a very aggressive player, and when she’s on she’s tough to compete against.”

The Cyclones put their 1-1 record on the line when they begin play Friday evening against the reigning Big 12 champions, Texas A&M. The Aggies are 4-5 for the season, with all five losses coming to teams ranked 13th in the nation or higher.

After their Friday meet, the Cyclones hit the highway again and will compete in Austin against Texas. The Longhorns had their first loss of the season Sunday against No. 2 Florida, dropping their record to 4-1.

“We’re ready to start conference play and we’re excited for playing outside in warmer weather,” sophomore Beth Chermel said.

Not only will the women be playing in their first outdoor meet of the season, but Chermel will be returning to compete in her home state of Texas.

“I’m excited to be going home to see my family,” said Chermel. “I’m excited to just be traveling with the team and really looking forward to playing in front of my family and friends.”

Although the team’s members have had two weeks off of competition, they haven’t let up during practice.

“They’ve been working hard,” Conlon said. “I know they’re ready to compete again. We worked on doubles play and individual situations. They have a tremendous opportunity playing against two great teams. They’ll play outside for the first time in a while, and I think they’ll be ready.”