FPHL 
Defender of the Year Atwell re-signs with Tricks
Reigning Defender of the Year Aaron Atwell is coming back for a third season in the Hat City. The 30-year-old defenseman officially signed a PTO to return to the Danbury Hat Tricks for the 2020-21 season.
Atwell, a former Danbury Titan during their 2015-16 run to the Commissioner's Cup Final, cited his love for the city of Danbury as a major contributing factor for his return.
"For me it made perfect sense to re-sign," he said. "I haven’t been this excited for hockey in years. Just like I felt when I was traded last season, Danbury is home. It’s a great town with great people. As much as I feel comfortable in Danbury, the plan has been- and continues to be- growth."
Atwell was a revelation for the Hat Tricks after being acquired in an early-season trade from the Danville Dashers. He recorded 21 points in 26 games for Danbury, leading the team in all three zones both at even-strength and on special teams.
"Acquiring Aaron from Danville was a pivotal point in our season last year," said general manager Billy McCreary. "It was obvious we were getting a fantastic player but he proved to be much more than that. His leadership off the ice, his play on it, the quality individual that he is, he helped take our team to another level."
"We know that Atts shares our commitment to raise that bar year after year," he continued. "It's an honor to have him back in a Hat Tricks uniform."
Atwell's two-way play coupled with his ability to chew big minutes has made him a valuable commodity for head coach Anthony Bohn's 2020 gameplan.
“Aaron is one of the best D-men in this league," Bohn said. "We're looking forward to having him back in Danbury. He will be relied on to be one of our leaders, and we're sure he will be up for the challenge.”
Atwell currently sits at 99 career points in his FPHL career.