His long, hard journey to NHL success is finally paying off for Airdrie's Aaron Dell.

The San Jose Sharks goaltender was nominated by his team for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy.

The annual league award is given to the player who best displays attitudes of sportsmanship and perseverance.

For Dell, the idea of perseverance is something he's used to. The Airdrie product has worked his way through various levels of hockey just to reach the NHL.

Dell played with the AJHL's Calgary Canucks before heading to the University of North Dakota from 2009-2012.

After working his way through several minor hockey leagues, Dell got the call to join the San Jose Sharks in their Stanley Cup run last season and officially took the backup role this year.

The winner of the Masterton trophy will be announced at the NHL Awards in June.

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