PENTICTON, B.C. - Jan Kostalek is ready for the next step in the long journey.
The Winnipeg Jets defence prospect left the Czech Republic as a teenager to chase his dream of playing in the NHL and after completing his junior career, Kostalek is turning pro, most likely as a member of the Manitoba Moose of the American Hockey League.
“I started playing junior in Canada, because in the Czech Republic, not many people can see you play up there. You can't show off how you play,” said Kostalek, who is back at the Young Stars Classic for the third time after being chosen in the fourth round (114th overall) of the 2013 NHL Draft.