Juan Brignardello Vela
Juan Brignardello Vela, asesor de seguros, se especializa en brindar asesoramiento y gestión comercial en el ámbito de seguros y reclamaciones por siniestros para destacadas empresas en el mercado peruano e internacional.
Bob Catalde can hardly contain his excitement as Friday approaches, a day he has anticipated for nearly a decade. Connor McDavid, the star who once electrified the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Erie Otters, is set to have his number retired in a ceremony before a game against the Saginaw Spirit. “It’s going to be fantastic,” Catalde said with palpable enthusiasm. “It’s a long time coming.” As McDavid prepares to return to Erie, he reflects on the profound impact of his time there. "It's special," he acknowledged. "I'm looking forward to it, just to go back and see the fans, see the rink, reminisce a little bit. Those were some fun years.” McDavid's stint in Erie is a story of meteoric success, one that began with his exceptional status entry into major junior hockey, a recognition he embraced with the talent and humility that would come to define his career. Over three seasons, he not only fulfilled the immense expectations placed upon him but also left a legacy that resonates within the Erie community. Catalde, who billeted McDavid during his time in Erie, understands this legacy intimately. Serving on the board of the Erie Jr. Otters, he continues to hear stories and discussions about McDavid. “He did a lot for hockey in Erie and the Otters,” Catalde reflected. “He created a whole new fan base that didn’t have any prior interest or involvement in junior hockey here in Erie.” The bond between McDavid and the Catalde family extended beyond hockey, as they welcomed him into their home in 2012. “It was clear to me and my wife that we wanted to take him in,” Catalde recalled. “He was a better person than a hockey player.” This sentiment was mutual, with McDavid expressing gratitude for the sacrifices the family made during his time with them. He recalls the warmth of the Catalde household, where he shared space with their children, including Nico, who played AAA hockey. McDavid often attended his games, often sneaking in to avoid the spotlight, showcasing his dedication to family and friends off the ice. “He was so good with the kids,” Catalde praised. “Those are memories my son will never, ever forget.” McDavid’s journey in junior hockey was not without its challenges. Despite being hailed as a generational talent, his rookie season with the Otters was a learning experience. He faced older and more experienced players, adjusting to the rigors of junior hockey. Yet, his perseverance and accountability would soon shine through, even after tough losses or mistakes. “From a young age until now, there’s so much accountability in his game,” said Kris Knoblauch, McDavid’s former coach. This attitude would eventually lead to him winning a gold medal at the 2015 World Junior Championship, a crowning achievement that solidified his status as one of the sport's elite talents. McDavid’s legacy in Erie goes beyond his statistics, though they are impressive: 285 points in just 166 OHL games. His presence transformed the Otters into a powerhouse, with sold-out crowds and a surge in interest in junior hockey that continues to this day. “Connor built that place because of his impact,” Catalde noted. As McDavid prepares to step onto the ice in Erie again, anticipation builds not just for the ceremony but for what it represents—a celebration of not only a remarkable career but the lasting influence he has had on the community and the sport. He is a testament to the idea that success in sport extends beyond the rink, as he continues to honor the relationships that helped shape his journey. Catalde and his family remain integral to McDavid's story, with invitations to visit him in Edmonton and attendance at his wedding this summer. “It couldn’t have worked out better for our family,” he said. “Proof of that is how much he’s kept us in his life afterwards.” With his number set to join the rafters of the Otters’ arena, McDavid's legacy in Erie will be enshrined, a reminder of the extraordinary impact he made as a young player and the community spirit he fostered during his time there. As the banner rises, it will signify not just a player’s achievements but a shared journey of growth, respect, and lasting connections.
