John Krupinsky Honored with 2025 Founders Award

DANBURY, Conn. — The Danbury Hat Tricks are proud to announce that assistant coach John Krupinsky has been named the recipient of the 2025 FPHL Founders Award, recognizing his continued outstanding service and commitment to the Federal Prospects Hockey League.

This marks Krupinsky’s second time receiving the prestigious honor, first earning the award in 2020. The Founders Award is presented annually “to a person or group for their outstanding service and commitment to the FPHL.” This selection is based on a voting process by two (2) representatives from each FPHL member club and then a verification by the FPHL League staff.

Read the FPHL's release here.

“To be recognized with this award again is incredibly humbling,” Krupinsky said. “It’s been an honor to work in this league—especially in this city, where hockey means so much to the community. I share this recognition with every player, coach, staff member, and fan I’ve been lucky enough to work with over the years, as well as all the players and coaches on other teams in the league I’ve had the pleasure of meeting.”

Krupinsky has been with the Hat Tricks organization since its inaugural season in 2019 and has played a vital role behind the bench and with team operations, serving as the manager of player relations and assisting in alumni outreach. His influence has extended far beyond the locker room, helping shape the culture of the team and maintaining strong ties with former players and coaches and the city.

A sergeant with the Danbury Police Department and a lifelong contributor to Danbury’s hockey scene, Krupinsky’s presence has been instrumental in the team’s ongoing success, including its 2022–23 Commissioner’s Cup championship.

“Johnny is a cornerstone of our team and a leader in every sense of the word,” Hat Tricks president Herm Sorcher said. “He brings heart, toughness, and integrity to everything he does. This award is a fitting tribute to the incredible impact he’s had — not just on the Hat Tricks, but on the entire FPHL community.”

Krupinsky has served behind the bench for the Danbury Mad Hatters, Whalers, and Titans, working under six different head coaches during his tenure. He also contributed behind the scenes with the Danbury Trashers during their 2004–06 run. Throughout his career, Krupinsky has become one of the most respected and enduring figures in Danbury’s hockey history.

For more on Krupinsky’s 2020 Founders Award honor click here.

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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.