Team to face rival Michigan State

The No. 44 IU men’s tennis team is taking its game to East Lansing on Saturday to face conference rival No. 70 Michigan State. The Hoosiers look to improve on their 11-4 overall record and 1-1 record in the Big Ten. \n“Our guys are working on getting into the state of mind that is necessary to win on the road,” IU coach Randy Bloemendaal said. \nA week off has given IU’s players time to rest their legs and to prepare for the talented Spartans.\n“Coming back to Bloomington and practicing on our own courts during the time off makes a big difference,” Bloemendaal said.\nBloemendaal also mentioned the fast courts at Michigan State, and how the Spartans have one of the best home-court advantages in the Big Ten. Michigan State is undefeated at home this season, recording 10 consecutive victories in East Lansing. \n“Michigan State has an extremely quick court but ours are pretty fast, too,” IU freshman Lachlan Ferguson said. \nFreshman Phillip Eilers agreed.\n“It really fits my game,” Eilers said.\nThe Hoosiers have consistently dominated doubles play throughout the season, dropping the doubles point in only two matches. \nThe Spartan squad has not played a match since March 12, a 5-2 loss to No. 14 Michigan. The Hoosiers hold the advantage against Michigan State in the all-time series, winning 47 of 67 matches.