Hat Tricks Add Enforcer Jesse Swanson

DANBURY — In his first move as general manager, AJ Galante has signed enforcer Jesse Swanson to a professional tryout contract with the Danbury Hat Tricks.

Swanson, 22, played last season for Hockey Club Venom, where he had one assist and 57 penalty minutes in six games. The 6-foot-8 forward also spent time with the Meota Combines of the Saskatchewan Prairie Hockey League, recording one goal and three assists in two games, and with the Northern Alberta Lightning of the National Junior Hockey League, posting two goals and one assist in two games.

“Jesse Swanson is one of the most unique hockey players I have seen since returning to the game," general manager AJ Galante. "As the game gets faster and smaller, when you see a 22-year-old kid stand 6-foot-8 and over 250 pounds, it automatically gets your attention. Aside from being one of the top tough guys in this league, when you dive deeper and see the skill set he possesses, it was an absolute no-brainer for me."

“I’m excited to wear a Danbury uniform and help bring a championship back to the city,” Swanson said. “I promise all Danbury fans it’s going to be a fun season you won’t want to miss. I’d like to thank the coaching staff, Nick (Niedert) and MJ (Maerkl) and general manager AJ Galante for giving me this opportunity. Danbury hockey is in my blood!”

The Big River, Saskatchewan, native began his professional career in 2024-25 with the defunct Elmira River Sharks, playing six games and logging 64 penalty minutes.

Galante added, "He will fill a void I believe we had last season, he is a ‘Danbury guy.’ He understands what this city is about and what it means to put on that Hat Tricks jersey. Jesse brings size, toughness, and a blue-collar mentality, but he also has the ability to make plays and contribute offensively. That combination is rare, and it’s going to make him a fan favorite from day one.”

Welcome to Danbury, Jesse!

The 2025–26 season is right around the corner and season tickets will be on sale soon! To learn more about our ticket packages, email herm@danburyhattricks.com. To stay up to date on all things Danbury Hat Tricks hockey, go to www.danburyhattricks.com, follow the team on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and YouTube (@DanburyHatTricks), sign up for the Hat Tricks' newsletter here, and find game materials—game notes, line charts, and media guides updated every game here.

ABOUT DANBURY HAT TRICKS:

The Danbury Hat Tricks are a professional hockey team based in Danbury, CT and compete in the Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL). Since their founding in 2019, the 2023 Commissioner's Cup Champions have brought thrilling, fast-paced, and hard-hitting hockey to the Danbury Ice Arena, earning a reputation for their competitive spirit, electric atmosphere and strong community ties. The team is dedicated to providing an unforgettable game-day experience for fans of all ages while proudly representing the city of Danbury.

Off the ice, the Hat Tricks are committed to fostering connections within the local community through outreach programs with schools, businesses and charities. By developing top-tier hockey talent and growing the sport in the region, the Hat Tricks aim to bring the community together and deliver entertainment that leaves a lasting impact.