A Comeback for the Ages
Matt Bonner, the Hall-West Hartford net‑minder, endured two spinal stress fractures during his high school lacrosse seasons, yet he never missed a single hockey game.
His perseverance paid off as he backstopped the team to a historic Division III state championship, finishing as the program’s all‑time leader with 1,718 saves and 37 victories.
Coach Colin O'Connor’s aggressive system leaned heavily on Bonner’s reflexes, turning the goalie into the linchpin of a defense that overwhelmed opponents.
Off the ice, Bonner’s mother, Michelle Bonner, a respected sports journalist, provided relentless encouragement, while Governor Ned Lamont traveled to the school to honor the champions.
Next fall, Bonner will continue his career at the University of New Haven, joining the Chargers as they look to build on the momentum of their first state title since 1993.