Flint Firebirds forward Charlie Murata has committed to Michigan State, it was announced Friday.
Murata, who hails from Toronto, Ont., spent the entire 2024-25 season with the U16 Don Mills Flyers, scoring 50 goals and adding 47 assists for 97 points in 76 regular-season games. Prior to his U16 year, Murata also spent his U14 and U15 years with Don Mills.
Drafted by the Firebirds in the first round of the 2025 OHL Priority Selection, Murata signed with the team in May and will head off to join the Spartans in the fall of 2028.
A skilled, smart forward, Murata has the ability to take over a game with his puck skills and ability to maneuver in transition. While he might take some time to get adjusted to the OHL, it would not be a surprise to see him become a difference maker for the Firebirds in his rookie season.