When it came time to decide the next step in his hockey career, the answer, says Beau Jelsma, was right there.
The former Barrie Colts captain announced Monday he had signed a commitment to play NCAA Division 1 hockey next fall at Providence College in Providence, Rhode Island.
“It felt right,” said Jelsma of his decision to join the Friars hockey program.
The 21-year-old, who wrapped up a four-year junior hockey career with the Colts this month, said he made his decision back in early November.
“The organization is highly touted, and they have a really great program there,” he said. “Honestly, I’ve been in contact with the coaches throughout this whole year and it’s truly exciting. I’m excited for it.”
A member of the Hockey East Association, Providence’s competition includes Boston University, Boston College, Merrimack College, Northeastern University and the University of Vermont.
“It’s really a great fit for me,” said Jelsma. “Everyone in the organization has been really great and welcoming. It’s going to be a great opportunity for me.”
The program which was spearheaded from the mid-1960’s to 1980 by longtime NHL general manager Lou Lamoriello. The current head coach is Nate Leaman.
The Friars finished with an overall record of 21-11-5 in NCAA Division 1 play last season. They placed fifth with an 11-8-5 record in the Hockey East standings.
“They’re going to have some roster spots open and, because I’m an older guy, they are going to expect a lot out of me,” said Jelsma, who had 115 goals and 241 points over 259 games with Barrie. “I’m very excited for that opportunity because I like to win games and be the most impactful player that I can be for a hockey team.”
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Jelsma’s new Providence teammates includes winger John Mustard, who was a 13th-round pick by Barrie in the 2024 OHL Priority Selection.
Mustard is also a third-round pick of the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2024 NHL Draft.
“I get to do my schooling and play high-level hockey,” said Jelsma. “You never know, you can sign a (NHL) deal out of school. It’s a very good league and it’s going to be very good for my development.”
While it may be a different route, Jelsma says he hasn’t given up on his dream of one day playing in the NHL. He’s previously been invited to NHL camps in Pittsburgh and Toronto and hopes this is the next step in helping him one day earn a pro contract.
“My dream, since I’ve been a little kid, has been to play in the NHL and that’s my only dream still,” he said. “I dream about it at night. It doesn’t matter, everyone takes a different path that way and maybe this is my path, to go to school for some years and get developed there.
“Everyone has got their plan. I haven’t lost hope. I think if I work hard, good things will happen.”
