The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to honor the memories of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau through a series of heartfelt tributes during the 2024-25 season. The tragic loss of the Gaudreau brothers in a bicycle accident last month has profoundly impacted the hockey community, and the Blue Jackets will commemorate their lives with various meaningful gestures throughout the upcoming season.
Commemorative Helmet Stickers
To ensure Johnny and Matthew are remembered in every game, the Blue Jackets will wear special helmet stickers starting with their first preseason match against the Buffalo Sabres on September 23. The stickers are thoughtfully designed in blue with gray trim, featuring the name "GAUDREAU" encasing two doves, symbolizing peace and remembrance, positioned between the numbers 13 and 21. These numbers hold great significance as Johnny proudly wore number 13 during his NHL career, while Matthew sported number 21 while playing at Boston College.
These commemorative stickers will not just be a preseason gesture but will be worn by Columbus players for the entire 2024-25 season, reflecting the lasting impact Johnny and Matthew had on the team and the larger hockey community.
Moment of Silence
Prior to their first home preseason game against the St. Louis Blues on September 25, the Blue Jackets will observe a moment of silence to honor Johnny and Matthew. This poignant act will allow fans, players, and staff to collectively mourn and celebrate the lives of the Gaudreaus, fostering a sense of unity and remembrance throughout the arena.
Foundation Support
Additionally, the Blue Jackets will conduct a special 50/50 raffle during all four of their home preseason games. The proceeds from these raffles will benefit the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, an organization established to remember the brothers and contribute positively to the community in their honor. This initiative not only supports a charitable cause but also ensures that Johnny and Matthew's legacy of kindness and community involvement endures.
Season-Long Tribute
The tributes will extend into the regular season as well. The Blue Jackets’ first regular season game is scheduled for October 10 against the Minnesota Wild. As a continual homage, the team will wear a special patch featuring Johnny's number 13 on their jerseys throughout the entire season. This gesture emphasizes the enduring respect and admiration the team holds for Johnny Gaudreau.
On October 15, during the Blue Jackets' home opener against the Florida Panthers, every fan attending the game will receive a replica of the No. 13 patch. Distributing these patches ensures that every supporter can partake in honoring Johnny, creating a shared experience of tribute and solidarity among the fanbase.
Tragic Incident
The tragic event that took Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau's lives occurred in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The brothers were struck by a drunk driver while riding bicycles, a devastating incident that led to the driver's arrest and subsequent charges of two counts of death by auto. This tragic accident not only affected their family but also resonated deeply within the hockey community and beyond, underscoring the perils of impaired driving and the preciousness of life.
The Columbus Blue Jackets' comprehensive tribute to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau serves as a powerful reminder of the impact these young men had on their peers, the sport, and the broader community. Through these honoring gestures, their memory will be kept alive, inspiring others to play and live with the same passion and kindness that Johnny and Matthew embodied.