Tomorrow's match could be the season ender for the Penn State women's tennis team (8-12, 2-10 Big Ten) as it faces single elimination in round one of the Big Ten championships. The No.8 seeded Nittany Lions will battle No. 9 Minnesota at the University of Illinois tomorrow at 9 a.m.
If the Lions emerge victorious, they will capture their first road win of the season as well as the chance to compete against No.1-seeded Northwestern Friday at 10 a.m.
Penn State's chances for winning tomorrow are greater than they have been in the past, largely due to its 5-2 victory over the Gophers on April 16th.
"Previous matches have been successful because of our confidence and belief," Baker said. "We play within our own limits and control our level of fight -- after that point, just go out and have fun."
The continuous challenge for the Lions will be managing the marathon-like season they have had.
"We've been playing since September -- [The difficulties are] physically keeping our bodies to the level we want them at and mentally being able to stay fresh," Baker said. "We've been on the road a bit, came off a long weekend in Michigan. The challenges are not huge but it's your mental preparation in handling those that allow you to work your magic out there."
Although she's feeling anxious, Freshman Leyla Morzan thinks the Lions will succeed as long as they impose their games and have positive energy when they take the court.
"I'm a little nervous, but really excited," Morzan said. "I've never played in the Big Ten, and since we've beaten Minnesota before, it's gonna be a nice way to start the tournament off."
The most memorable words that Baker has shared with her team helped it focus mentally. She let them know why they're in Illinois and whom they're playing for.
"Compete with pride and remember what's on the front of your shirt," she said. "You play for Penn State and you represent Penn State. Many wore that shirt before you and many will wear it after you're gone. This is your time -- time to represent not only a great institution, but to represent yourself out there."
