Michael Houser authored an exceptional story of perseverance when he signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Florida Panthers on July 11.

At that moment, three years of mind-warping frustration caused by being passed over in three straight NHL Drafts was instantly wiped away thanks to four days of hard work — and one golden opportunity.

NHL.COM: HOUSER PERSONIFIES PERSEVERANCE

Shortly after his name went uncalled in last month’s draft, Florida invited the 2012 Ontario Hockey League Goaltender of the Year to their development camp.

Knowing this was the break he had been waiting for, Houser told the Panthers he was coming not to occupy empty space, but to earn a place on the depth chart.