To say that NIU women’s tennis has had a lengthy break from action is an understatement. The Huskies have not played a match since their 7-0 home loss to Northern Iowa on March 6.

In what will be its first match in 20 days, NIU will try to improve its 2-7 record against the Chicago State Cougars. Chicago State (3-12) is 2-5 on the road and at one point had a seven match losing streak that spanned from February 20 to March 12.

The Huskies are hoping to take advantage of their struggling counterpart and enter their conference schedule on a high note.

Considering that this match will occur before hitting the road to face Eastern Michigan, it is crucial for NIU to jump on the opportunity to snag a victory.

NIU’s home record this season currently resides at 2-2. Last season, NIU’s home record was 2-7, meaning a win against the Cougars would give them more home wins than last season with four home matches still left on the schedule.

Winning against the Cougars is important in many ways for the women’s squad. Not only would it improve NIU’s home record compared to the 2010 season, which is an accomplishment in itself, but it will also give the team extra confidence going into its conference season.

Last year the Huskies ended their season with a 1-7 conference record. The lone win came against Eastern Michigan. Facing EMU in their conference opener should spell success for the Huskies, who have been without last season’s first singles player Katie Friedlund for the entire season. Friedlund will be returning for doubles play this weekend, according to head coach Ryun Ferrell.

After a very likely and much needed win against Chicago State, NIU should have enough momentum and confidence to pull through against an improved EMU squad.

The Eagles hold a 7-6 record and are trying to improve from last season’s 8-14 record.

If NIU prevails over EMU on April 1, expect to see the Huskies climb the conference ladder while EMU searches for the rungs.

The Huskies will be hosting the Chicago State Cougars in Rockford on Saturday at 4:30 p.m.