When the Huskies host Eastern Illinois Wednesday at 7:30 p.m., the meet may not mean much for the standings.

However, an impressive showing by the Huskies may help earn important seeds in the upcoming NCAA regionals.

“There are nine teams in a regional, with 10 men to a team,” NIU wrestling coach Ed Vatch said. “Of those 90 wrestlers, 20 are chosen for post-season action. Eastern is in our regional and beating them could mean more (NIU wrestlers) getting (post-season appearances).”

Vatch sees EIU as a beatable squad, especially with the improved attitude of his own men.

“Eastern is a team very similar to us,” said Vatch. “They’re strong in some weights and weak in others. I see (the meet) as a pretty even match-up and it should be a barn-burner.”

Vatch is also pleased with his team’s work ethic after its poor showing last weekend.

“The guys were upset with themselves after the weekend,” explained Vatch. “This week, they worked hard and they’ve turned their attitudes around tremendously.”

After Wednesday’s meet, the Huskies have a two-week layoff before travelling to Illinois State on Feb. 21 for a 7:30 p.m. match-up.

Vatch is looking forward to the break and intends to use the time for training and to let his team heal before the season winds down.

The Huskies have two more meets after Wednesday’s battle. The NCAA West Regional Championships will be held March 2 at ISU.