IU opens against Wildcats

IU looks to finish up its five-match homestand on a positive note by starting the Big Ten season against No. 44 Northwestern (9-4, 1-1) at 5 p.m. today at the IU Tennis Center.\nThus far on the homestand, the Hoosiers have split four matches, with victories over Ball State and North Carolina State, and will be looking to finish strong. \nThe Hoosiers (5-4) look to have their hands full, as the battle-tested Wildcats have already defeated three ranked opponents, including two in the top-25 with Pepperdine and Arkansas. Northwestern is led by four upperclassmen and picked up its first Big Ten win of the season last week in a 4-3 decision against Wisconsin.\nGetting off to a good start in the conference season is important, especially because of the previous two seasons, where the Hoosiers were a combined 4-16 in the conference, junior Tom Bagnato said.\n"I think particularly this year we have to do well in the Big Ten to build up our NCAA credentials," Bagnato said. "I know I'm looking to make a mark in the Big Ten season this year."\nAlong with the conference opener at home, IU wants to take advantage of the opportunity to play in front of more fans tonight, as the Hoosiers host their annual "Dinner with Doubles." \nThe event will begin with the first match and will include an all-you-can-eat menu of pizza, breadsticks, salad and soda, provided by Pizza Hut East, which will be served until 7 p.m. There will also be a raffle later in the evening in which IU tennis apparel and clothing can be won.\n-- Contact staff writer Dan Click at daaclick@indiana.edu.