Young athletes grow up dreaming about playing for their their favorite team, to play among their heroes and dress before each game in the jersey they grew up wearing as a fan.
Now one Bartlett, Ill. native is one step closer to getting his chance.
As the NHL Draft continued on Saturday, Vincent Hinostroza waited anxiously to see if a team would take notice of the work and dedication he's put in every day on the ice. After being rated as a "middle of the road" player, Hinostroza decided he wouldn't give up until he made it to the big stage.
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When it came time to announce the No. 169 pick, his dream came true -- Hinostroza was selected by the Blackhawks.
Just hours after the draft, he joined WGN Radio to talk about the work he had been putting in and the excitement he felt to someday play for his hometown team.
"I put a lot of trust in my coaches," Hinostroza said. "I've been working hard everyday, bettering myself to get where I am today."
The recent high school graduate spent his last two seasons in the USHL with the Waterloo Blackhawks after spending six season with the Chicago Mission.
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Hinostroza is committed to Notre Dame, where he plans to continue improving and showing his strong work ethic in preparation to play in the NHL.
"I just have to keep working hard. I'll spend a few good years in college and then hopefully I'll play there," Hinostroza said.
The Chicago product has received countless calls from family and friends who are ecstatic to see him become part of the Blackhawks' organization. Hinostroza has a big goal to work toward, and he isn't planning on slowing down until he fully achieves his dream.