The hockey community is set to unite in a touching tribute to the late Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau throughout the 2024-25 NHL season. The Columbus Blue Jackets, where Johnny Gaudreau made his mark in the league, will lead a series of commemorative gestures to honor the lives and legacies of the Gaudreau brothers, who tragically passed away in a bicycle accident last month.
Honoring with Helmets and Patches
In an emotional tribute, the Blue Jackets will wear special helmet stickers for the entire season. These blue stickers with gray trim are emblazoned with "GAUDREAU," encircling two doves, symbolizing peace, nestled between the numbers 13 and 21. These numbers held significant importance—Johnny wore 13 during his NHL career, and Matthew proudly bore 21 during his time at Boston College.
The team will debut these helmet stickers in their first preseason game against the Buffalo Sabres on September 23. The significance extends beyond the equipment, as the Blue Jackets will also bear a patch with Johnny's number 13 on their jerseys throughout the season. This touching homage will be shared with fans during the home opener against the Florida Panthers on October 15, where all attendees will receive a replica of the No. 13 patch.
Moments of Silence and Collective Mourning
Before their first home preseason game against the St. Louis Blues on September 25, the Blue Jackets will observe a moment of silence for Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. This poignant pause will give teams, fans, and the hockey community a shared space to reflect on the tragic loss and celebrate the inspiring lives of the Gaudreau brothers.
Furthermore, the team has planned a unique 50/50 raffle for all four home preseason games, with proceeds going to the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation—a charitable organization established in their memory to support causes they held dear. This initiative not only honors the brothers but also turns an eye towards impacting the community positively.
A Season of Remembrance
The Columbus Blue Jackets have ensured that the 2024-25 season will be marked by continuous remembrance and homage. The jersey patch and helmet stickers serve as constant reminders of the brothers’ impact on and off the ice, fostering a spirit of unity and perseverance within the team and their supporters.
The first regular season game on October 10 against the Minnesota Wild marks the beginning of this heartfelt tribute. As players take to the ice that night, Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau’s presence will be felt through the symbolic markers of their lives and contributions. This collective gesture of the team and its fans ensures that the brothers' spirits are woven into the fabric of every game, echoing their love for the sport and their community.
Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau’s untimely death was caused by a drunk driver, a stark and sobering reminder of the responsibilities involved in driving. The driver involved in the accident was arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto. This tragedy has exemplified the vulnerability of cyclists and the critical need for heightened road safety awareness.
A Legacy of Influence and Inspiration
The Gaudreau brothers’ legacy stretches far beyond the rink. Johnny, known for his exceptional skill and dedication in the NHL, and Matthew, remembered for his competitiveness and spirit at Boston College, left indelible marks on their teams and the broader hockey community. Their memory serves not only as a reminder of their contributions to the sport but also as a beacon of hope and resilience for their peers and admirers.
As the Columbus Blue Jackets embark on their 2024-25 season, they carry with them the memories of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. Through every game, sticker, and patch, their legacy will continue to inspire and uplift, reminding us all of the profound impact they had during their time. The tributes set forth by the Blue Jackets ensure that the brothers' spirit will eternally be a part of the team and the community they both so dearly loved.