Damian Clara

Damian Clara Bio

Damian Clara is an Italian professional ice hockey goaltender for Brynäs IF of the Swedish Hockey League (SHL), and he is under contract with the Anaheim Ducks of the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on January 13, 2005, in Brunico, Italy, Clara has established himself as a noteworthy player in international ice hockey and was drafted 60th overall by the Ducks in the second round of the 2023 NHL entry draft, marking a significant milestone as the first Italian player to be selected in the NHL entry draft.

Early Life and Background

Damian Clara was born in Brunico, Italy, where he began his journey in ice hockey at a young age. His passion for the sport led him to pursue opportunities that would develop his skills and prepare him for a professional career. At the age of 15, Clara moved to Salzburg, Austria, to attend the Red Bull Hockey Academy, where he honed his abilities over two years. This formative experience was crucial in shaping his future as a goaltender.

Path to Hockey

After his time at the Red Bull Hockey Academy, Clara joined the under-20 program of Färjestad BK in Sweden in 2022. During the 2022–23 season, he played 35 games with Färjestad’s under-20 team, achieving a record of 17 wins and 17 losses, along with a goals against average of 2.79 and a save percentage of .903. His performance caught the attention of scouts, leading to his selection in the NHL draft.

Damian Clara Career

Early Career (2023-Present)

Clara’s professional career began in earnest when he was drafted by the Anaheim Ducks on June 29, 2023, as the 60th overall pick in the NHL entry draft. This achievement marked a significant milestone for Clara, as he became the first Italian player to be selected in the NHL draft. Following the draft, he was loaned to Brynäs IF for the 2023–24 season, where he played 34 games, achieving a remarkable record of 25 wins and 8 losses, with a goals against average of 2.23 and a save percentage of .912. His impressive playoff performance, where he went 10–1 with a 1.68 goals against average, helped Brynäs secure promotion to the SHL.

Breakthrough (2024-2025)

On June 3, 2024, Clara signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Anaheim Ducks, solidifying his place in the organization. However, he was loaned back to Färjestad BK for the 2024–25 season, where he served as the backup goaltender. During this season, he played 21 games, recording a 9–10 record with a goals against average of 3.19 and a save percentage of .878. On February 14, 2025, Clara’s contract with Färjestad was terminated at the recommendation of the Ducks, leading him to sign with Oulun Kärpät of the Finnish Liiga for the remainder of the season.

Notable Works and Milestones

Clara’s journey in professional ice hockey has been marked by significant achievements, including his historic selection in the NHL draft and his successful tenure with Brynäs IF. His performance in international tournaments has also showcased his talent, making him a notable figure in the sport.

Damian Clara Award Nominations

Throughout his career, Damian Clara has received recognition for his contributions to ice hockey, particularly as a young goaltender making strides in international play.

Damian Clara Awards Won

While specific awards won by Damian Clara are not detailed, his achievements in the sport, including his performance in the NHL draft and international competitions, highlight his potential for future accolades.