HAT TRICKS RE-SIGN FORWARD GRADY FRIEDMAN

DANBURY – The Danbury Hat Tricks announced that the team has agreed to terms with forward Grady Friedman on a PTO contract for the 2026-27 season.

Friedman, 24, joined the Hat Tricks for the final month of the 2025-26 season after a successful five-year college career at UMass-Boston and Curry College. He made his Hat Tricks debut on March 14th vs the Binghamton Black Bears, going on to play 9 games for John Bierchen and M.J. Maerkl.

In his 9-game run, Friedman showed impressive production, tallying 6 goals and 2 assists. On April 4th, he netted an overtime winner in a thrilling 4-3 comeback win vs the Port Huron Prowlers, capping off the team’s annual Alumni Night celebration.

Friedman began his college career at UMass-Boston, appearing in 36 games over two seasons. He finished with 5 goals and 5 assists for the Beacons. After, he played three seasons at Curry College where he skated in 61 games for the Colonels. The forward collected 19 goals and 18 assists during this three-year career in Milton, MA.

Speaking about the deal, General Manager A.J. Galante said, “Grady is one of the most talented players I've come across in a long time. He is a 5-tool player, and during the short time he was with us he made a tremendous impact. To have a player of his stature come out of college, with tons of options, for him to have faith in our organization really means the world. I have him already as a favorite for rookie of the year this season!”

Head Coach John Bierchen added, “Grady brings that dynamic offensive skill teams are always looking for. He was a big late-season pick up, and we’re happy to have him from the start this season.” 

Grady returns to Danbury where his father, Doug Friedman, is the Head Coach of the Western Connecticut State Wolves hockey program who play at the Danbury Ice Arena.

The entire Hat Tricks organization is excited to welcome back Grady Friedman in 2026-27!

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.

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