After five years with the MJHL's Portage Terriers, forward Stan Yanchishyn has landed a semi-professional contract.

He'll play for Wichita Thunder of the Central Hockey League in the upcoming season.

Yanchishyn feels good about the opportunity to play at the pro level, where the skill level is significantly higher. He believes it'll be a good challenge.

Yanchishyn admits he didn't know much about the CHL until now. However, he's certain it's a good place to begin life as a professional.

Yanchishyn had 20 goals, 38 assists, and 254 penalty minutes in 58 games with the Terriers last season. He notes Wichita doesn't want him to change his style of play in the pro ranks.

Yanchishyn's looking forward to playing in front of crowds averaging 8000 to 9000 a night. He reports for training camp October 8th.