The Icers' regular-season grand finale displayed the determination Penn State possesses going into nationals. But Coach Joe Battista may have uncovered the last incentive to provide even more energy to his already pumped team.

The coach carried a sign, "Through this door walks champions," into the locker room after this weekend's ACHL playoff tournament, and said quietly, "I hope it comes true."

If this weekend is any indication of what's to come, Penn State heads to Iowa as a national-championship contender. The Icers upped their record to 22-7-1 with Saturday's tough 6-3 win over Delaware, adding to the excitement that encompassed the team after Friday's 15-2 smashing of West Chester.

Despite Saturday's hard-fought battle, the Icers showed character and played 120 minutes of aggressive hockey. But it was after Saturday's game that they realized playing 60 minutes of disciplined hockey can result in a national championship.

"We're looking at it like we've got a very good shot," forward Brad Russell said. "All we have to do is go out there, play our game and play hard."

Strong goaltending, solid defense and an array of offensive explosions pushed the Icers' unbeaten streak to 11 games. The team took advantage of great passing, which opened up the ice and created numerous scoring opportunities. Most of all, the team finally received Battista's message.

"Defense comes first," tournament MVP Rob Keegan said. "Defense wins championships, and so far eveything's looking good."

Lightner agreed the team is playing well defensively, but stressed the importance of minor improvements before Wednesday's first-round American Collegiate Hockey Association matchup against Eastern Michigan.

"We played well at times defensively," Lightner said. "And then there were times in the second period and third period that we couldn't get the puck out . . . we just didn't have the poise."

After Friday's blowout, co-captain Mark Cervellero said he was comfortable with the unity the team established on the ice. Shot after shot saturated opposing goaltenders. The score increased at an amazing rate.

"We're a team," Cervellero said. "Six months ago, I would say we were a bunch of individuals."

Forward Chad Markowitz agreed that the team's work ethic will make a difference this week. Markowitz also said he feels confident that the entire team can handle the upcoming opposition.

"Every line's contributing and that's what we need to win at nationals," Markowitz said.

Battista was not surprised by his team's accomplishment. He seemed to know the potential of this team all along.

"I'd be lying to you if I didn't say there is this kind of feeling of destiny with this team," Battista said.