After a rough start last weekend in Iowa City, the ISU women’s tennis team is still confident heading into this weekend’s meet against Drake.

The Cyclones were swept by Iowa last Friday in both singles and doubles play, but won two of three doubles matches against Northern Illinois before surrendering five of the six singles matches.

However, the team’s coach said positive attitudes and dedication have been visible throughout the team.

“Monday, their first day back, they were very positive and focused,” said ISU coach Michele Conlon. “We set aside one court where we worked on individual aspects of their game and then worked on getting in the flow of doubles play.”

Focus seems to be a selling point for this ISU team. Conlon mentioned how very focused the team was and the players agreed.

“We’ve been really focused and have come to practice ready to work hard,” sophomore Eve Soriano said. “The mood in the locker room has been very positive. Coach Conlon said our overall performance didn’t reflect how hard we’ve been working and practicing.”

Playing at home should give the Cyclones an edge, players said, against a Drake team that returns five letterwinners from last year’s 6-13 team.

“It’ll be an advantage playing at home in front of our friends,” freshman Danielle Uscinski said. “Everyone’s psyched up and working hard. We’ve got a good balance of work and having fun.”

Conlon said playing in Ames is a welcome change.

“It’s great to play at home,” she said. “Any time you can play at home with friends cheering you on is always nice.”

The Cyclones seem to be comfortable taking their season one step at a time and not looking too far ahead of schedule. Even with Big 12 action starting next weekend in Oklahoma City, the team isn’t discussing it.

“Everyone’s pretty confident about this weekend,” said Soriano. “Everyone looks and seems pretty crisp. We try not to look too far ahead, but instead just play point by point.”

So for now, the Cyclones set their sights on Drake Saturday. Play will begin at 10 a.m. at the Ames Racquet and Fitness Center, 320 S. 17th St.