When Matt Clark landed in Canberra in 2024, he barely had time to catch his breath or adjust to the time zone before being thrown into action. Fast forward a year, and the American defenseman is not only settled in, he’s thriving. Now in his second season with the Brave, Clark has returned with a deeper connection to the team, the fans, and the city he’s grown to love.

Comfort, Chemistry, and Coming Back

Last year was a whirlwind for Clark who arrived just hours before his first game, when the season was already well and truly underway. This season, he’s back with familiarity and confidence, without the nerves that accompanied his debut.

“I didn’t have as many nerves as I did the first time. I knew the group, the culture, the pace. And I knew I’d have fun, because I had a lot of it last year.”

His decision to return wasn’t just about the hockey. “It’s a great group of guys. It’s just so much fun. You get a lot of support from fans, and that makes a difference. That’s really why I came back. It’s even better the second time around. I love Canberra and I love playing for the Brave

Clark’s on-ice partnership with fellow defensemen Bayley Kubara has also grown from strength to strength. “Bails and I are super tight. We play well together, and we’re good buddies off the ice too.”

In the locker room, Clark says he’s still “just one of the guys,” but his voice and presence reflect experience. “We’ve got a tight-knit group. We hang out outside the rink a lot. It’s an awesome vibe, and I love being part of it.”

From Underdogs to Champions

Clark has now experienced the full landscape of the AIHL, and it’s one he appreciates for its entertaining, goal-heavy style. “There are a lot more high-scoring games here than back home. In North America, it’s a lot of 2-1 or 3-2 games. Here, it’s 8-6, 9-3—it’s fun for the fans.”

But it wasn’t just the style of play that left a mark, it was the journey. When choosing a moment that stood out as the moment that defined his first season with the Brave, Clark can’t go past winning the Goodall Cup.

“Obviously the grand final stands out, and just that finals weekend as a whole. We came in as the sixth seed. No one gave us a chance. We had to go through Perth, one of the league’s best, and then Sydney, who were red-hot. Everyone thought it was Melbourne’s Cup to lose. But we came together and proved everyone wrong.”

That underdog run is still fresh in his mind. “I’ll never forget it.”

Growing His Game

Since last season, Clark’s game has continued to evolve. After a stint with the Birmingham Bulls in the SPHL, he returned to Canberra with a sharpened edge. “Playing in the SP kind of teaches you to be very defensive. Here, I’m relied on more offensively. I’ve had to adjust and take more control of the game as an import. It’s been good for me.”

He credits his teammates and the Brave’s depth for the continued success. “Not every team has the kind of locals we do. Everyone chips in. Our depth separates us; we’re not just a couple of imports. It’s three lines, four lines, and six D. That’s why we’re dangerous.”

Bigger Stage, Bigger Goals

The Brave’s move from the Phillip Ice Rink to the AIS Arena has elevated Clark’s entire experience in the capital, amplifying his status as a fan favourite.

“There’s such a buzz around Canberra now. We’re selling out every game and the atmosphere is unbelievable. It’s got that NHL arena feel. It’s great for the sport in Australia.”

He’s also been flying the flag internationally, suiting up for Team USA in the Ice Hockey Classic between AIHL games. “That kind of exposure, combined with what’s happening in Canberra, is huge for the growth of hockey here and it is really exciting to be a part of.”

Going Back to Back

With the Brave hunting a back to back Goodall Cup Championship, Clark knows what it takes. “You’ve got to bear down when it counts. One mistake can end your season. It’s about showing up under pressure and sticking to the game plan.”

Looking around the locker room, Clark believes the Brave are equipped to go back-to-back. “We’ve got a great team, arguably better than last year’s team that won it all. Everyone’s coming for us, and we know it. But I think we’ve got a shot.”

And beyond 2025? “I love it here. Not a lot of imports come back for a second year, and even fewer for a third. But I can definitely see myself returning.”

From the last line of defence, to a cornerstone of Canberra’s championship run, Matt Clark is here to win, and maybe, to stay.