The men’s and women’s tennis teams are on the road this weekend to match up with Ohio Valley Conference foes Tennessee-Martin Saturday and Austin Peay Sunday afternoon in Clarksville, Tenn.

The women’s team hold an impressive record of 6-2 and is looking to strike again this weekend in conference play. The men’s squad just returned from its spring break trip to future OVC member Samford and hopes to have a good start in conference play this weekend away from home.

Both the men’s and women’s teams will open their conference schedule during this road trip. The women’s squad has played well and plan to improve its record this weekend. Eastern Kentucky’s 2-0 conference record places pressure on the women’s team to record some OVC victories.

The men adapted well to the long trip they took over spring break and are ready to go to Tennessee Saturday.

The stakes are high at Tennessee-Martin Saturday. Both teams have developed a tense rivalry with each other, and both are coming off victories.

Even though it is early in the conference season, Eastern head coach Brian Holzegrafe believes this weekend sets the tone for the rest of the year. The Saturday match against the Skyhawks is a big match for both the men and women.

“We have played some competitive matches so far, and have come away with some big wins,” Holzegrafe said. “We are playing great, but the season rides on this weekend.”

The women are putting together a brilliant season and know they could be a top contender in the OVC this season. They have a great opportunity to gain some big wins this weekend and walk away holding the No. 1 spot in the conference.

“The girls have an amazing year going, and they have to respect that every time they play,” Holzegrafe said.

Eastern’s men have come up with some big upsets already this year and have had some huge chances throughout the season. This weekend could be a big stepping stone for the rest of the season.

“The guys have played in spurts all year,” Holzegrafe said. “What we need this weekend is for them to find their competitive-selves, and play the best tennis they can.”

The women not only have to make their mark this weekend in the conference, but they need to gain some wins so they can take the momentum into the meeting they have with Butler March 25.

Holzegrafe is looking forward to this weekend so he can see what players are going to take their performance to the next level. With C.J. Weber leading the men, the team is looking good. Junior Brandon Blankenbaker is expected to have a great weekend as well.

“Brandon (Blankenbaker) is incredible when he plays to his capability,” Holzegrafe said. “I expect him to have a great weekend, and help the team walk away with some wins.”

The women are looking toward their star, Jana Matouskova, to lead the way. She has been playing great all year long and has helped the team earn its impressive record so far this season. Junior Amber Lenfert is coming off a knee injury, but Holzegrafe is still looking to her for some help.