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CHARLOTTE – The Charlotte Checkers make their maiden voyage into the American Hockey League this season, and one of their prospects hopes that he can be there to see it all happen.

The Checkers' Mike McKenzie is a Hurricanes prospect that has had to earn everything he's gotten in hockey.

McKenzie is aware that, as an undrafted player, the Hurricanes have other players under contract that are ahead of him to play with the Checkers this season. That makes his job that much tougher, but he wouldn't have it any other way.

“I think it will tell you there are lots of guys here fighting for spots,” said McKenzie. “We can't take anything for granted. Even guys that are returning guys and everyone is working hard out there.”

If the name sounds familiar, it should. Mike is the son of well-known hockey writer Bob McKenzie. Mike says his father has been there with him throughout his career, and he has heard the "dad” question plenty of times.

“I get that a lot,” said McKenzie.