Damian Clara has made a strong start. © Oulun Kärpät

Damian Clara: A dream debut after stormy days

For South Tyrol’s greatest ice hockey talent Damian Clara, a new adventure began on Wednesday – and with a bang.

19. February 2025

From: det

That's how fast it goes in ice hockey! Last Thursday it was decided that Damian Clara's days at the Swedish top club Färjestad are counted, immediately afterwards the Reischach goalie talent signed with the Finnish first division club Oulun Kärpät. Clara completed his first training session there on Monday and was between the goal posts for the first time in the league match against KooKoo on Wednesday. It was an evening that was like balm for the South Tyrolean's soul.

Not only did the Finns, currently ranked 11th, win 2-1 and remain in the race for the playoffs. Clara also played very well and became a real rock in the surf in his team's goal. The 32-year-old saved 20 of the 31 shots, which corresponds to a save rate of almost 97 percent. That is an outstanding value and a sign that the Pusterer is still one of the best goalkeeping talents in Europe, even after difficult months for him.

Pressed the reset button

These were difficult months because Clara experienced the tough side of the ice hockey business at Färjestad in the highest Swedish league (which is probably the best in Europe). Clara's last few months were marked by some unfortunate performances, criticism and ultimately a lot of time on the bench. Now the Pusterer is pressing the reset button in Finland - and has already made a very promising start with his dream debut.