"Family, friends, billets, everything about it, so blessed and grateful."
DiPietro grew up 35 minutes south of Windsor in Amherstburg, Ont., as a Spitfires fan and was in the stands cheering them on when they won back-to-back titles in 2009 and 2010.
This time, though, he was the star as Windsor won four games in a row at the tournament, including two against the Ontario Hockey League champion Otters.
"Different perspective, more enjoyment, obviously," DiPietro said in between hugs with family and friends who met him on the ice post-game. "You do so much during the year, for it to pay off is truly amazing."
The 17-year-old netminder made 32 saves and was named the top goaltender at the tournament. Jeremy Bracco led the offence with a goal and two assists, including a set up on Aaron Luchuk's winner early in the third period.
"It comes down to Mikey in the net," Bracco said about the win. "He made some timely saves, he was a rock for us all tournament, all year."
Bracco, a 19-year-old Toronto Maple Leafs prospect who was born in Freeport, N.Y., had a memorable season as he also won world junior gold with the United States.
"Crazy, unbelievable feeling. Any time you get a ring is great," said Bracco, who sported a GoPro camera on his head as he celebrated.
Logan Stanley and Graham Knott also scored for the host Spitfires.
Dylan Strome -- the tournament MVP -- Warren Foegele and TJ Fergus scored for the Otters.
Troy Timpano stopped 18 shots in defeat and was clearly dejected with the outcome as he tossed his stick from the bench towards a cameraman filming disappointed Otters players.
"Great hockey game. Just sucks to be on this end of it," said Strome.