AJ Galante Returns as GM of the Danbury Hat Tricks

After a colorful past in the hockey world, AJ Galante is back in the game as the general manager of the Danbury Hat Tricks, a professional team based in Connecticut. Galante, who gained notoriety as a teenager leading a mob-associated hockey team featured on Netflix, emphasizes the importance of toughness in hockey.

“I believe there’s still a place in the game for grit and intimidation,” says Galante, 38. He is determined to uphold the gritty legacy of the sport while aiming for team success. Galante is no stranger to blending toughness with strategy—he previously managed a boxing gym and contributed to launching Ice Wars, a UFC-style hockey fight circuit. Most recently, he served as a senior advisor to the Hat Tricks’ previous management.

The team, part of the Federal Prospects Hockey League, begins its new season on October 10 at Danbury Arena. Galante recognizes the team’s history, noting, “It’s going to be like a 20-year-later sequel to the movie—I’m putting everything into it.”

Galante’s father, Jimmy Galante, was released in 2014 after serving a seven-year sentence for racketeering, conspiracy, and wire fraud tied to their family’s trash business, which was linked to the original Trashers team. The Netflix film highlighted how the Trashers treated players like stars, with under-the-table payments until federal investigations halted the operation.

Despite the team folding, the Trashers’ legacy continues to resonate. The story’s popularity has led to increased demand for team merchandise, with figures like Drake and Fabolous spotted wearing Trashers gear. Galante remains optimistic about building a new chapter with the Hat Tricks and restoring the team’s toughness while emphasizing the importance of winning.