The Eastern women’s tennis team will host the first home match of the year today against Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis.

Eastern is looking to snap a four-match losing streak in front of its home crowd. Eastern head coach John Blackburn said he understands how much this match means to his players.

“I think that we have been on the road so much our team is looking forward to playing at home,” Blackburn said. “Playing in front of some of their surroundings and playing in front of friends and family on campus will be a big boost for us.”

Playing at home also has its advantages, he said.

“I think that there is always an advantage playing at home, we don’t have to travel,” Blackburn said. “Being familiar with the surroundings is definitely an advantage.”

This match also marks the team’s first match of the year to be played outside. There are adjustments that the women will have to address in order to be prepared for the elements.

“We need to get a comfort level with playing outside,” Blackburn said. “Outside you have to deal with the sun and the wind, and the weather is a bit cooler.”

The style of play will be different for the Panthers today. Blackburn said the ball speed will not be as quick as indoors.

“Typically the ball is slower, the ball will come at you faster when you’re inside but when you’re outside the players will have more time to react,” Blackburn said.

The team strategy for the match is to be quick and play as a team.

“Players have to have more patience throughout the match,” Blackburn said. “Quickness and court coverage become more important when you are outside.”

The action will begin at 2 p.m. at Darling Courts. The Panthers (2-6) host the 0-10 Jaguars.

Dane Urban can be reached at 581-7944 or dcurban@eiu.edu.