KOMOKA, Ont. — The Komoka Kings of the Greater Ontario Hockey League have named Michael Clarke the franchise’s new head coach.
Clarke, 32, of London, Ont., brings extensive playing experience to the role. He grew up in the London Junior Knights organization, where he won an Alliance Hockey under-16 championship, before joining the GOHL’s London Nationals as a 16-year-old. He had 36 points in 39 games in his rookie GOHL season.
Clarke went on to a four-year Ontario Hockey League career with the Windsor Spitfires and Peterborough Petes, recording more than 150 points in more than 250 games. In 2012, he was selected in the 5th round of the NHL Draft by the Colorado Avalanche.
He then played three seasons at St. Francis Xavier University in U Sports, winning two Atlantic University Sport championships. Clarke later moved to Germany, where he played eight professional seasons, including seven in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga, the country’s top league.
“Michael Clarke’s playing resume is a perfect example of what this league strives to do,” said Kings president and general manager Roop Chanderdat. “He was developed in the GOHL before moving on to the OHL, getting drafted to the NHL and playing in the professional ranks. He has been part of winning programs at every level and knows what it takes to succeed.”
“We believe Michael is well positioned for success with our club, and we look forward to his impact behind the bench,” said Chanderdat.
“I am thrilled and grateful for the opportunity to coach the Komoka Kings,” said Clarke on taking the position. “I’m excited to bring my hockey knowledge and experience to this team. I am looking forward to working with the players and coaches to create a strong culture and identity within the team.”
Clarke will be joined behind the bench by returning assistant coaches Sean O’Brien, Michael Woolley and Dylan Thomas, who will help him transition into his new role.
