Beljo ready to howl for Mississauga Ice Dogs

BY SCOTT HUNTER HADDOW

Jadran Beljo's calm demeanor hides a menacing, score-at-all-costs beast.

The slick winger is a true soldier, and he takes a can-do, no-nonsense approach to the game he loves.

This attitude helped propel Beljo into the realm of potential scoring superstar.

Beljo exploded in his second year during the 2004-05 season, jumping from one goal and four points in 37 games in 2003-04, to 19 goals and 35 points in 59 games, including 12 goals on the power play.

"My job is to stand in front of the net, take a beating and score goals off rebounds," said Beljo. "I will do anything to score a goal for the team."

Beljo's impressive offensive boost came under the guidance of legendary Major Junior coach Dick Todd, who was brought back to the Peterborough Petes' organization in 2004. "Dick Todd came in and gave me chance to play more," said Beljo. "Pucks just started going in and it really took off from here. It was a pleasure learning from Dick Todd because he's one of the best coaches ever."

For Todd, giving Beljo his shot was easy after a brief chat before the 2004-05 season. "I asked Jadran what his expectations were and he wanted to be on the power play and be a solid third line player, but move up to the first or second line when needed," said Todd. "By the end of the year, Jadran had accomplished all that and proved to everyone the value he has as a hockey player."

The Petes made plenty of noise in the playoffs making it to the Eastern Conference Final, bowing out to Ottawa in four games.

Beljo had six goals and 10 points in the Petes 14 playoff games.

Beljo's outstanding season came at a heavy price though, as he was the key piece in a blockbuster trade between Peterborough and the Mississauga IceDogs.

Beljo, along with forward Jordan Grant, were swapped to Mississauga for goalie David Shantz. "I am excited to go there because I have a lot of family there and it's a fresh start," said Beljo. "I am going to work hard and try and get a spot on the top line. They have a nice arena. I want to contribute some offence and play good defence. My goal hasn't changed, which is to win the Memorial Cup. It was good in Peterborough, but hopefully I will do better things in Mississauga. I am also excited to get the chance to play in Sudbury two more times during the season because they are in the same division."

The IceDogs are ecstatic to have Beljo in the fold. "Jadran is definitely someone who's gifted offensively," said IceDogs assistant GM Dave Brown.

"He's a young guy with a real natural knack for scoring goals. That's something you can't teach guys - how to score. We're looking for him to come in and help out on offence."

Playing in the OHL hasn't changed Beljo, and he loves coming home to play. "It's special to play in the OHL," said Beljo. "I don't let it get to my head.

My family keeps me grounded. I am playing hockey and it's fun. Coming home to play is crazy and weird because usually half the rink is family and friends. I enjoy every moment."

Beljo, like so many other young hockey players, will spend his time this summer honing his skills and toning his body so he can take another big step forward and realize his full potential.