Correction: A previous version of this article stated the match against Western Michigan would not count towards the Mid-American Conference standings. Ball State and Western Michigan play twice this season, and both matches count towards the standings.
Ball State men’s tennis returns to action against Mid-American Conference foe Western Michigan Friday after a win against IUPUI Wednesday.
The Cardinals (11-9, 2-2 MAC) are one game behind the second-place Broncos (12-7, 3-1 MAC) in the conference standings. Western Michigan won the previous matchup 5-2.
“We lost to them once already at their place in a fairly competitive match,” Richards said. “We know it’s a tough match and we have to have one of those days where everyone has one of their better performances.”
Senior Matt Helm said his goal is to remain focused against Western Michigan.
“Being focused allows me to stay positive the entire match and dialed in on each point,” Helm said.
On Saturday, the Cardinals face IU Southeast (10-8, 3-1 River States Conference). Richards said he did not want to waste a playing date.
“It will be a great opportunity for our guys that don’t get to play regularly to play some extra matches,” Richards said. “Their coach is one of our former outstanding players and we have a great relationship with him.”
The match against WMU starts 2 p.m. Friday. Saturday’s match is scheduled to begin at noon. Both matches are played at Cardinal Creek Tennis Center.
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