CLUB SPORTS: Kostick coming up big

Kevin Kostick may seem invisible among his peers. He certainly doesn't stand out. With a 5-foot-8-inch, 175-pound stature and a humble personality, Kostick could easily get lost in any crowd. But when the sophomore center laces up for the San Diego State ice hockey team, one thing remains more than visible - the size of his heart. Coming in as a freshman, Kostick appeared out of place. In tryouts, it was evident to the coaching staff that his abilities and skills were sub-par. Yet with the team's roster in limbo, Kostick found his niche on the bench. "He barely made the team," assistant coach Benjamin Jack said. "His skills weren't that good, his skating was rusty, and you'd watch him and think he didn't know how to skate." A proud, yet modest, skater, Kostick knew the bench wasn't the right place for him. His determination and will to get better thrived in the off-season as he spent hours on the ice trying to improve his game in order to show he belonged. "I was really surprised to see him back this year especially after last year," Jack said. "But it was a night and day difference. Last year we weren't sure if he was going to make it, but we were surprised to see that he came back and he put a lot of time in and really progressed. "He's just a clutch player now, and his heart and desire is just second to none on the team." Kostick's evolution didn't come with the simple flick of a switch, though. With doubters growing louder, the ability to break through mentally is what ultimately pushed Kostick to be the player he is today. "I had to put it in myself that I can do these (hockey fundamentals) and I had to go out there and make it happen," Kostick said. "I just say it was all mental and I put myself in that situation where I have to play better and step it up." And stepping it up is exactly what he has done. After last year's disappointing season in which Kostick registered minimal ice time and just three assists, he has not only seen his minutes grow, but his production as well. Kostick has been a force, registering 11 goals and seven assists in SDSU's undefeated season. "He's one of the foundations of the team," Jack said. "He's going into that corner (after a puck) no matter what, and he's not going to think twice about it. And we need those guys to build the team around and it's just great to have." With the Aztecs (12-0-0) staring down an undefeated season and national championship desires, Kostick hopes to continue making his presence felt. "You always like to think you're helping everyone else out there," Kostick said. "And I'd like to think (I can keep) contributing to that too."

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