BLOOMINGTON - The Bloomington PrairieThunder has signed wing Jason Payne to a contract for the team's inaugural season in the United Hockey League.

The Toronto, Ontario native is entering his 11th professional season. He spent last year as a member of the Quebec RadioX.

Payne played in 40 games for Quebec, recording five goals, one assist and 157 penalty minutes. In his career, Payne has played in 386 games with 28 goals, 25 assists and 1,514 penalty minutes. Payne played three seasons in the UHL with the Quad City Mallards, B.C. Icemen, Thunder Bay Thunder Cats and Flint Generals.

"Jason is a great veteran player with the toughness we're looking for in this league," said PrairieThunder coach Derek Booth. "He has a great work ethic, and he's a guy who knows when to stir it up, and when to protect his teammates."

The PrairieThunder plays an exhibition game at 7 p.m. today at the Muskegon (Mich.) Fury.

The team's home opener is Oct. 14 at 7:05 p.m. against Fort Wayne at the U.S. Cellular Coliseum. Tickets are available by contacting the Coliseum box office at 309-434-2678 or toll free at 1-866-891-9992. Tickets also may be purchased online by visiting www.prairiethunderhockey.com. Season ticket packages are available by contacting Jennifer at 434-2692 or Patrick at 434-2664.