To the members of the Penn State men's tennis team, the state of Illinois represents a land of opportunity --the chance to set the tone for the rest of the season.

This weekend, some of the Lions will travel to the University of Illinois to take part in the Big Ten Men's Singles Championship. The tournament starts tomorrow and runs through Monday's finals.

Coach Jan Bortner said the Lions are anxious to get off to a good start this year.

"It's early in the season, and everybody is going out there with an opportunity to prove what they can do," he said. "They are highly motivated and there is a charged atmosphere here."

Since the best players in the conference will be in the tournament, the competition will be tough, said senior Lion Ivan Spinner. He added this weekend is not just crucial for the team, but also for each player.

"It's important to individuals for building up their confidence," Spinner said. "These are the guys you are going to be facing the rest of the way."

Spinner, the No. 4 seed in the tournament, will face Calvin Schentz of Northwestern in the first round. Bortner said Spinner is in a great position.

"If you're one of the top four seeds, you stay away from some of the top players for a few rounds," Bortner said. "Now, he has to take advantage of it, but he's been in this situation before, and he knows the guys will be coming after him."

Among the other seven players Penn State will send to the championships is Anthony Moran, who by luck of the draw received a first-round bye. Bortner said it is to the players' advantage to play in the first round in order to get used to the court and settle down.

"Usually, you're a little anxious in the first match," he said. "He's going to go up against a guy who is loose and has confidence from a first-round win."

Also competing for the Lions are Chris Cahill, Brett Englesburg, Chris Chang, Michael Carter, Dale Cathell and Colin Smeeton.