MORRISVILLE, N.C. (WNCN) — The third time is the charm for Carolina Hurricanes prospect Charlie Cerrato. After entering the previous two NHL drafts but not hearing his name called, Cerrato was taken in the second round of this year’s draft by the Hurricanes with pick No. 49.
“Went through some ups and down for sure in junior hockey, but I feel like everything that happened to me was a blessing in disguise,” said Cerrato. “I feel like everything happens for a reason and you come out better from it. I’m happy where I’m at and thankful for everything that happened and excited to get started here.”
Cerrato’s dad was a hockey star at a young age who opted for football. Vinny Cerrato played college football and is best known for being the vice president of football operations for the Washington Redskins more than two decades ago. The younger Cerrato getting an up-close look at what it takes to climb the ladder.
“The professionalism, the work ethic he says it takes to make it to the highest level, that’s what he’s given me since I was born and started playing hockey, so it’s been great having a family that’s so involved in sports, and I know I wouldn’t be where I am without them,” the younger Cerrato said.
Or without his own perseverance when others may not have believed in him.
“You know any time people doubt you, you can take it one of two ways — you can pout or use it as motivation so just use it as fuel, a chip on your shoulder,” said Cerrato.
That chip on the shoulder is gone, now that Cerrato has fulfilled his lifelong dream of being drafted.