Even after dropping its first two matches, the MSU women's tennis team remains confident about the remainder of its season.

"My outlook is the best it's been since I arrived here," head coach Tim Bauer said. "I've spent four years building a team, and I think this year should reflect that.

"We're looking to make the NCAA tournament for the first time, regain a national ranking and make the top 30."

To open the home portion of its 2004 season, the squad will host Bowling Green and Toledo this weekend, aiming to improve upon its 0-2 record.

In a tough, two-match season opener, the Spartans fell 7-0 to both No. 12 Vanderbilt and No. 31 Virginia in Nashville, Tenn.

"Last weekend was just our first matches back," Keri Thompson said. "We're trying to work on consistency.

Thompson, a junior from Clark Lake, Mich., is touted as MSU's top player, and as Bauer sees it, is a future NCAA top-50 contender.

"(Thompson) has transformed herself into one of the best players in the country," Bauer said.

Thompson said she finally got the chance to prove herself last season when some players were injured.

"It gave me a lot of confidence and I expect more from myself now that I know what I can do," Thompson said. "I'm expecting to get a ranking this year."

Thompson, along with freshman Sarah Andrews, sophomore Shelley Brady and senior Caroline Lay, are each expected to play a key role this season. Currently, the Spartan lineup includes just one senior and three freshmen.

"Our strength overall is from our depth. We have a lot of players that are going to contribute," Bauer said. "The foundation is good and now we just have to put the finishing touches on."

Having never been to the NCAA tournament, Bauer is hoping to lead MSU there for the first time.

The action begins 10 a.m. Saturday.