Italian goaltender Damian Clara makes NHL history without stepping on the ice

When thinking of Italy, soccer is likely the first sport that comes to mind. However, since hosting the Winter Olympics in Turin in 2006, Italy has slowly become a hockey nation, producing talented players at an increasing rate. This brings us to a significant milestone in the National Hockey League (NHL).

The Anaheim Ducks have announced that they have signed 19-year-old Damian Clara, a native of Brunico, Italy, to a National Hockey League contract. While signing a contract is routine news in the NHL, this particular signing is groundbreaking. Clara has become the first goaltender born in Italy to sign an Entry-Level Contract (ELC) with an NHL team. Clara has been honing his skills with Brynäs IF in Sweden's HockeyAllsvenskan, where he played 34 regular-season games, posting a record of 25 wins and 8 losses and a .912 save percentage. In the playoffs, he further impressed with a record of 10-1 and a .931 save percentage. Additionally, Clara has represented Italy on the international stage, helping lead the team to the 2022 World Junior Championship D2A and earning bronze medals in consecutive World Championships with the senior team. Clara is set to play with Färjestad BK in the SHL for the 2024-2025 season.

This achievement is monumental. For Clara, signing a professional hockey contract in one of the world's top leagues is a significant accomplishment, especially for someone from a country more renowned for producing soccer stars. It highlights the growth of hockey in non-traditional markets and underscores the global reach of the sport.

While an ELC does not guarantee a spot on the NHL team, it is a critical step in the right direction. Clara's journey is a testament to the power of hard work and determination, proving that no matter where you come from, success in the hockey world is possible.

The signing of Damian Clara is a celebratory moment, not just for him but for the entire Italian hockey community. It shows that the sport is growing in places where it traditionally hasn't been, and it's an inspiration for young athletes everywhere.

Source: Blade of Steel
Italian goaltender set to make history