Hat Tricks Re-Sign Ironman Defenseman Josh Labelle

DANBURY — The Danbury Hat Tricks announced today that the team has agreed to terms with defenseman Josh Labelle on a contract for the 2025-26 season.

Labelle, 26, is coming off a career year with the Hat Tricks. Serving as an alternate captain, he was named the team’s Defensive Player of the Year, played in all 56 regular season games and set career highs in points (48), goals (10), assists (38), and plus-minus (+27). His 38 assists were the second-most in a single season by any Hat Trick in franchise history, and his 10 goals marked the first time he reached double digits in his career.

The 6-foot-6, 220-pound blueliner enters his third season with Danbury. Through his first two campaigns, the Mississauga, Ontario, native has totaled 82 points (19 goals, 63 assists) with 142 penalty minutes, adding five points (two goals, three assists) in six playoff games. The veteran ranks sixth all-time in team history in assists (63) and eighth in points (82).

"When constructing a team, some re-signings are more imperative than anything else, and that was the case with Josh," general manager AJ Galante said. "He’s the anchor of our D-core, a locker room leader, and is coming off the best statistical year of his pro career. He has one of the most competitive drives I’ve ever seen, and I couldn’t be more excited to have him back in orange and black."

Danbury’s power-play quarterback recorded his 100th FPHL point Nov. 29, 2024, against the Port Huron Prowlers. Labelle was acquired by the Hat Tricks in a trade with the Columbus River Dragons on Oct. 18, 2023. He began his professional career with the Watertown Wolves during the 2021-22 season, appearing in all 56 games (six goals, 24 assists, 30 points) and adding six playoff games en route to a Commissioner’s Cup championship.

The 2025–26 season is right around the corner and season tickets are on sale now! To learn more about our ticket packages, click here or 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.