Columbus Blue Jackets Announce Ian Clark as New Goaltending Coach

Earlier today, the Columbus Blue Jackets announced on their website that they have hired Ian Clark as the team's new goaltending coach.

Clark's most recent job was with the Vancouver Canucks, where he acted as goaltending coach and team consultant from 2002 until 2010.

In addition to working in the NHL, Clark was also part of Team Canada's coaching staff in the World Junior Championships from 2003-06. The team won silver in 2003 and 2004 and achieved gold in 2005 and 2006.

"We are very pleased to welcome Ian to our coaching staff," said Blue Jackets general manager Scott Howson.

"He has a tremendous amount of experience working with NHL goaltenders and helping them improve their level of play. We look forward to him working with all of our goaltenders and strengthening that position throughout our organization."

Clark has a very impressive resume, working with such talented goalies as Roberto Luongo, Marc-Andre Fleury, Corey Schneider, Cam Ward, Johan Hedberg, Andrew Raycroft, and current Blue Jackets backup Mathieu Garon.

"Having worked with Ian in the past, I believe his work ethic, knowledge of the goaltending position and the way he communicates with players will make him an excellent addition to our staff," said Blue Jackets head coach Scott Arniel.

“He has worked with a number of very successful NHL goaltenders and will be a great resource for our players at this very important position."

Clark will take over for coach Dave Rook, who recently resigned from the position so that he could spend more time with his family.

While with the team, Rook's position was only part time as he was only with the team during certain stretches in the season. Howson decided to fill the position with a full time coach with his hiring of Clark.

Clark will have a lot on his plate once he gets to Columbus, as he will be in charge of returning youngster Steve Mason back to the form that won him the Calder Trophy his rookie season.

The 23-year old has struggled in the two seasons following his rookie year, averaging a little over three goals allowed per game. Even with his battles with consistency, Mason received a two year contract extension in September 2010 worth $5.8 million.

Mason continued to struggle this past season, reaching the point that Howson began listening to teams' offers for his number one goaltender before the trade deadline.

There was either no interest in Mason from any team or the right deal was not reached because Mason finished the season in Columbus.

It is still unclear whether or not Howson is still shopping Mason before the Entry Draft at the end of the month and the beginning of the free agency period in July or if he has decided to stick with the Ontario native for one more year.

If Mason is in a Blue Jacket uniform next season, hopefully Clark can help get him back to where he can be consistent on a nightly basis and help return the Blue Jackets to the postseason.