MSU junior Martina Banikova hits the road this weekend to compete in the Intercollegiate Tennis Association’s All-American Championships.Fellow senior Philippe Frayssinoux is also set to compete in the tournament, which takes place Oct. 4-7.
Head women’s tennis coach Tracy Lane also will accompany Banikova on her trip to the tournament in Tulsa, Okla.
Banikova said she feels she will be well prepared for the All-American Championships. She will be leave Sunday to play in the singles matches on Tuesday. Banikova is currently ranked No. 29 in the nation.
“I’m really excited about the tournament,” Banikova said. “This is my first time going to a tournament like this.”
The women’s tennis team will head to Tuscaloosa, Ala., on Friday for the Roberta Alison Fall Tournament. The team got off to a strong start with its victories in the Ole Miss Tournament.
While the Lady Bulldogs had a successful fall season last year, they finished their spring season with several losses. This season they plan to gain more strength, focus and discipline during practice.
“We’ve only practiced for three weeks but the girls have been very intense,” Lane said.
The team is attempting to rebuild from the disappointing finish of last year’s season to play stronger, especially during Southeastern Conference competition.
“The team stepped up and played solid tennis last tournament, and we’re working on the team’s weaknesses and turning them into strengths and being more disciplined,” Lane said.
Lane said the tournament will hopefully better prepare them for the spring competitions and the SEC championships.
“I hope they all have strong showings and success in each of their different flights,” Lane said.
Banikova will be leaving for Tulsa before Sunday’s matches to head to the All-American Championships.
“Playing in the matches makes you more confident, so this will be my preparation for the All-American Tournament,” Banikova said.
Banikova said she has high expectations for both the Roberta Alison Fall Tournament and the All-American Championships.
“I think this year we will be really good,” Banikova said.
Banikova said one key to her success is intense practice and preparation before each of her matches.
“For a few minutes before each game, I listen to music alone because it relaxes me and helps me to get my mind set on the match,” Banikova said.