London, ON - Mustangs QB and reigning Hec Crighton winner Chris Merchant has signed his first professional contract and is headed overseas this summer.

Merchant has signed to play with the Wasa Royals of the Finnish Football League.

The Mustangs quarterback is excited for the chance to take the next step in his career.

"The experience is going to be an amazing opportunity to continue playing football while getting to see a new part of the world." said Merchant "It'll be a great opportunity to help expand the CFL 2.0 initiative as well."

The Royals season begins in June and runs through September.

"I'm hoping to go over and help my team win a championship while also building great relationships in another part of the world." said Merchant "It'll be another great opportunity to learn more about myself while playing the game I love."

Merchant is coming off a highlight season for the Mustangs where he threw for 2378 yards on 159 completions. He threw for 14 TD's on the season and ran for 438 and an additional 6 TD's.