SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Hockey history was made this past weekend when Carter Sanderson became the first player from South Dakota to hear his name called at the NHL Draft. The Pittsburgh Penguins selected the forward in the sixth round, 169th overall.

Less than two days later, Sanderson was already in Pittsburgh, walking into the Penguins’ practice facility and shaking hands with head coach Dan Muse — a moment he described as “super cool” and the realization of a lifelong dream.

Sanderson’s journey to the NHL won’t be immediate. After competing in the USHL last season with the Muskegon Lumberjacks, he plans to spend another year with the team before beginning his college career at the University of North Dakota. From there, he hopes to earn his spot with the five-time Stanley Cup champions.

“To join an organization that has names like Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Brayden Yager, and Mario Lemieux tied to it is incredible,” Sanderson said. “I couldn’t be happier to be drafted by Pittsburgh. It’s a great city, and I can’t wait to be part of it.”

The Pierre native knows his achievement carries extra weight back home. He sees his draft selection as a way to inspire the next generation of hockey players in South Dakota.

“I want kids across the state — from squirts to peewees to bantams — to know it’s possible,” he said. “It takes hard work, but you also have to enjoy the game along the way.”

While Sanderson is the first drafted player from South Dakota, he isn’t the only one to skate in the NHL. Sioux Falls native Walker Duehr has played nearly 100 games over the past four seasons with the Calgary Flames and San Jose Sharks.