Who Is Damian Clara? Meet Italy’s Rising Goalie Star

If you caught the recent Olympic game between Italy and Sweden, you probably noticed one name shining on the ice: Damian Clara. The 21-year-old goalie for Team Italy—and Anaheim Ducks prospect—was single-handedly keeping his team in the game before getting hurt trying to stop a breakaway from Vancouver Canucks star Elias Pettersson. By the time he left, he’d made 40 saves on 43 shots, and honestly, he deserved “player of the game” honours.

So, who is this guy? Let’s break it down.

Clara Is a Tall Goalie Talent From Italy.

Damian Clara was born in Brunico, Italy, on January 13, 2005. (Fun fact: he shares a birthday with Connor McDavid—just eight years apart.) Standing 6-foot-5 and tipping the scales at 207 pounds, he’s a physically imposing goalie. But what really gets people talking is his reflexes and poise under pressure. Drafted 60th overall by the Anaheim Ducks in 2023, Clara has already shown he can handle himself against some of the best young talent out there.

Clara’s Early Steps and Draft Story.

Clara started his career in Italy, but pro hockey scouts quickly noticed his potential. Before the Ducks picked him, his rights were part of a trade from the Boston Bruins, along with other players and picks. That move signalled that teams saw serious upside in this kid. From there, he’s carved out a path that’s steadily climbing toward the NHL spotlight.

He’s bounced around a bit, which helped him learn fast. In 2021-22, he played with Salzburg Red Bull Juniors in the AlpsHL, posting a 3.00 GAA. It didn’t take long for him to get better. By 2022-23, he was the starter for Farjestads BK Karlstad in the SweHL, holding a 2.79 GAA over 35 games. Last season with Brynas IF, he led the team with a 1.68 GAA and crushed it in the playoffs, finishing with a .930 save percentage.

This season, he’s stopped 72 of 102 shots in 30 games, with a 2.49 GAA, and his play is getting serious attention.

Today, Clara Made a Name for Himself on the Olympic Stage.

Clara showed everyone what he’s made of in the Olympics. Against Sweden, he faced 43 shots, stopped 40, and even took a scary tumble on a Pettersson breakaway save. His courage and calm under fire aren’t just stats—they’re the kind of stuff scouts and fans remember.

What’s Next for Clara?

Damian Clara is still young, but he looks like a real keeper, pun intended. He has size, skill, and determination. When he gets to the NHL, he looks as if he has what it takes to be a real difference-maker for the Ducks. Keep an eye on him—the youngster is only just getting started.