The net was empty. Then the game, the season, and the career came to a close.

When the Arizona Ice Cats notched the final tally in the 7-5 win over Penn State in the national tournament, the three-year career of goalkeeper Dennis Magulick was over.

The senior netminder played a crucial role in the team's quest for a national championship, compiling an undefeated record for 1994.

"We knew we had a chance to win, and all we wanted was to play in the national championship game," Magulick said. "Once you get there anything can happen, and to come so close and not make it really leaves me with an empty feeling."

Magulick's play in two tournament games clearly illustrated the highs and lows an athlete endures. With his team trailing Iowa State 4-2 in the second period, the senior was replaced by sophomore Jeff Crispino.

But instead of pouting and wallowing in self-pity, Magulick remained focused on the game, urging his teammates to continue the battle.

"Dennis has always been very supportive of the other guys on the team," co-captain Mark Cervellero said. "He's very team oriented, and when we came into the locker room after the period, he went around the room and thanked us for picking him up. That definitely affected me."

But if the team picked him up against Iowa State, the goalie was quick to return the favor. The following afternoon against Arizona, Penn State fell behind 6-2 early in the second period. Coach Joe Battista summoned Magulick to replace Crispino with the season on the line. And like a quality placekicker in the NFL, he was able to put his previous performance behind him.

"When I went in there against Arizona, it was a great chance for me to redeem myself," Magulick said. "I made a few saves and I was playing with confidence. I just wanted to give the guys a chance to get us back in it, and so I knew I couldn't give up anymore goals."

He didn't, making 16 saves en route to shutting down the powerful Ice Cat attack. But his stellar showing was no surprise to Battista.

"Dennis proved in the past what kind of player he is," Battista said. "And to rebound the way he did is a real tribute to his character. We're going to miss what he brought to the team both on and off the ice."