The Illinois Springfield women's tennis team is ready to begin its regular season, hosting No. 11-ranked Washburn at the Springfield Racquet & Fitness Center this Saturday, Feb. 1, at 10:00 a.m.

Illlinois Springfield
The Prairie Stars come into this matchup after a series of exhibition matches, including contests against Southern Illinois Edwardsville and Illinois State, as well as a scrimmage at home against Southern Illinois last weekend. These warm-up games have given the team valuable experience ahead of Saturday's regular season outing.

Familiar faces will lead the charge for UIS, with Carmen Llopis Fabra, Niamh Grogan, and Kamila Kalinowska bringing a wealth of experience to the lineup. Newcomers Ema Norma Bordean and Cristina Mendoza Romero are also expected to be in the mix, adding fresh talent as they aim to contribute right away in their first season with the team. 

No. 11 Washburn
Washburn women's tennis enters the season with high expectations after being named the preseason favorite in the 2025 MIAA Coaches Poll. The Ichabods finished fourth in the MIAA regular season last year and made a deep run in the MIAA Tournament, advancing to the semifinals. They followed that with a strong NCAA Tournament run, reaching the Round of 16.

In the fall, Washburn had four players qualify for the ITA Cup: Leo Floeth, Isabella Martensson, Renske Ubachs, and Daniela Tijaro.

Washburn, who warmed up with an exhibition against Cowley County last Saturday, will look to start the regular season against UIS in what promises to be a competitive match.