Clark looks back on spell at Steelers with fondness as he eyes new career

The 30-year-old is now back home near Vancouver, Canada, to begin a new career in property development after calling time on his six-year pro career, the last two seasons of which were spent with the South Yorkshire club.

Under rookie player-coach Ben Simon, Clark enjoyed a career-high year, posting 61 points, including 36 goals, in 55 games as the Steelers captured their fourth Elite League title.

But Clark’s second season was to prove frustrating under new player-coach Ryan Finnerty, often finding himself the odd man out due to the club opting to run with a spare import – sometimes two – which left him on the sidelines and ending the season with only 38 appearances.

“It was a great feeling to win the regular season championship under Ben (Simon) in my first year here,” said Clark.

“Overall, I’ve had a great two years and I just wanted to thank the fans for the way they supported me

“They way they applauded me when I came back after being left out for a few weeks was something I’ll never forget because it was very frustrating at times. In an ideal world you’d carry on playing until you physically can’t anymore but, for the amount of money you make, it can be difficult to do that so I think this is going to be my last season.”

Clark said he was also thankful to the University of Sheffield which had agreed to put him through a masters course as part of his two-year deal with the Steelers.

Given the signings they have already made in the close season, Clark said he thought the Steelers were already looking like strong contenders to regain their regular season crown.

“They look like they are going to be successful again because they have made some good signings already,” he added.

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Twitter: @PHarrisonYP