Blue White Illustrated

go into spring practice with only seven offensive linemen on its scholarship roster. That means Hartman has to get himself ready to supply depth at guard in 2014. BRENDAN MAHON When Mahon enrolled in late June, he had just undergone minor nasal surgery to clear up a sinus condition. Almost immediately, Penn State made the decision to redshirt the 6-4, 305-pound offensive lineman. BWI was told that with Penn State having already established an eight- or nine-man rotation on the offensive line, there was no need to waste a year of his eligibility. Instead, he has been part of the "Dirty Show, practicing both at " center and guard. Mahon's continued development this coming spring will be very important. He could practice at both center and right guard in spring practice, competing with Wendy Laurent and Angelo Mangiro at the former position, and Mangiro and Anthony Alosi at the latter. ANDREW NELSON McWhorter said in early September that one of the hardest decisions the coaching staff had to make this year was whether to redshirt Nelson, and O'Brien has said on several occasions that he believes the 6-5, 297pound tackle has a bright future. Insiders have told BWI that of the freshmen who enrolled in June, Nelson was best prepared for the physical demands of the college game. With Gress and Shrive graduating after the 2013 season, he will have a chance to compete with Donovan Smith and Garry Gilliam for a starting position. It's not unreasonable to think that he could become a four-year starter. GARRETT SICKELS As was the case with Nelson, the decision to redshirt Sickels was a tough one for the coaching staff. BWI has been told that the 6-4, 254pound defensive end was ready to play as a true freshman. The coaches reportedly like Sickels' size and toughness. By the beginning of spring practice, he could be up to 260 pounds. That would give Penn State some additional size at defensive end and a better physical presence at the point of attack. – PHIL GROSZ ICE HOCKEY Battista leaves Penn State Joe Battista, the ice hockey enthusiast whose vision and passion were central to the formation of varsity men's and women's programs at Penn State, announced in October that he was leaving the university to join Terry Pegula's East Management Services firm. Battista, who graduated from the Smeal College of Business in 1983 and went on to spend 27 years at Penn State serving in a variety of capacities, said he had "mixed emotions" about leaving. "It has been the greatest honor to represent my alma mater as a Lion Ambassador, student-athlete, hockey coach, athletic facilities manager, fundraiser and athletics administrator, Battista " said in a prepared statement. "Starting as a freshman hockey player in 1978, my 35-year journey has culminated with the building of the new ice arena and the launching of two varsity hockey programs. They will provide year-round entertainment and activity and serve the University Community and the Commonwealth for decades. " Battista had been serving as associate athletic director for the Pegula Ice Arena and hockey development, helping oversee the $91 million ice facility that Terry and Kim Pegula funded with the largest gift in Penn State history. In his new position as vice president of hockey related businesses, Battista will work with members of the Buffalo Sabres' front office. Pegula bought the Sabres in 2011. For Battista, who won six ACHA titles as coach of the Icers club team, the arrival of varsity hockey at his alma mater was a dream come true. "It is now time for me to set new goals and dream new dreams, he " said. Steve Manuel

• Cover