NIU volleyball coach Ray Gooden has mentored many matches at Loyola University-Chicago. However, this time it will be from the opposing sideline.

Huskies (2-1) will take part in the Loyola University Invitational. NIU will match up against Illinois at 2 p.m. and host Loyola at 7 p.m.

“There’s going to be emotions there,” Gooden said. “I know that. It’s going to be unique to go there and play. I know Loyola will use that as motivation. I’m hoping our players can do the same.”

Gooden coached the Ramblers men’s team from 1998-2001 and was an assistant coach for the women since 1997.

Motivation seems to be all around as the Huskies will look to avenge last weekend’s tournament loss to Indiana on Victor E. Court.

“We’re looking to get better and improve on all areas,” defensive specialist Melissa Benson said. “We need to establish our middle more and our ball control can always get better. That’s what we’re looking to do this weekend.”

Inconsistent play haunted the Huskies a week ago as they won their first five games, only to lose five of their final eight.

Consistency looms important this weekend against two tough competitors, claims Gooden.

“Loyola has made the tournament two of the past three years and Illinois has probably their best team in awhile,” Gooden said. “It’ll be two solid matches for us this weekend.”

Although winning is always the main priority, Gooden and the team know that this weekend has a little incentive behind it.

“I think that [Ray’s] going to want to walk out there and show what he’s made of and what he’s made of us,” Benson said.