The Arizona soccer team (1-1-0) has packed those blue equipment bags and are ready to go for Dan Tobias' maiden voyage, as the Wildcats begin their road season in Columbia, Mo. for the Nike-Tiger Invitational.

No, the Nike-sponsored golfer is not involved, but rather the University of Missouri (2-0-0), which plays host to the tournament. Joining the Wildcats and Tigers for the ride are Purdue (1-0-1) and Arkansas (0-2-0).

Arizona kicks off the tournament by knocking shin guards with Arkansas today at 4:30 p.m., followed by Missouri vs. Purdue at 7.

With extra obstacles to deal with, road trips can take their toll on a team, but Tobias is optimistic the Wildcats will be prepared to play.

"On the road, details must be in order," Tobias said. "I have a great staff that takes care of the all the details of a trip, so the players really can focus on playing."

The only time the Wildcats have faced the Razorbacks was in 1997, when UA took home the victory, 3-0.

This time around, the Ladybacks are led by three freshmen: goalie Carrie Dillsaver, along with a pair on offense in sisters Christina and Devon Burger.

Arkansas is one of few teams the Wildcats may actually have more experience against. However, Tobias says on-paper experience only goes so far.

"Coach (Alan) Kirkup has very strong players," he said. "Once the game starts you forget what class a player is: freshman, sophomore. It comes down to 11-on-11."

Arizona sophomore goalie Natalie Juarez played 90 minutes in goal last weekend. Freshman Krystal Werges stood in for the other 90, allowing no goals.

Sunday at noon, the Wildcats shoot out against the tourney hosts for the first time ever. Mizzou made a team trip to Brazil this summer, and the effects appear to be paying off. The Tigers started off strong, blanking both Iowa and Northwestern in the adversity of wet and wild weather. Predicted to finish fourth in the Big XII, the Tigers also added junior Lacy Moore to the preseason All-Big XII team.

"(We have) nothing but lots of respect (for these teams)," Tobias said. "We're excited. We had a really good week and we're ready to play."

The Wildcats are coming off a home tournament weekend where they won, 3-0 and lost, 2-1, to Kent State and Iowa State, respectively.

Last weekend was an offensive showing by junior Candice Wilks, who tallied two goals for four points.

"It is all about progress," Tobias said. "We've made (progress) so far, so we're really excited."