The Columbus Blue Jackets have planned a season-long tribute to honor the memories of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, following their tragic passing in a bicycle accident last month. The NHL team is set to dedicate various aspects of the upcoming 2024-25 season to the Gaudreau brothers, ensuring their legacy is cherished by fans and players alike.
Helmet Stickers and Uniform Patches
As a touching gesture, Blue Jackets players will be wearing specially designed helmet stickers from their first preseason game against the Buffalo Sabres on September 23. The stickers are creatively designed in blue with gray trim, featuring "GAUDREAU" encasing two doves between the numbers 13 and 21. These numbers hold significant sentimental value; Johnny Gaudreau famously wore number 13 during his distinguished NHL career, while Matthew Gaudreau donned number 21 during his collegiate tenure at Boston College.
The tribute does not stop at helmet stickers. The team will also wear a special patch bearing Johnny Gaudreau’s number 13 on their jerseys throughout the entire season. This patch is set to debut during the season opener against the Minnesota Wild on October 10, ensuring that Johnny's spirit is ever-present on the ice.
Moment of Silence and Fan Involvement
The Blue Jackets' remembrance efforts will also include a poignant moment of silence for the brothers prior to their first home preseason game against the St. Louis Blues on September 25. This solemn observance will give players, fans, and team staff an opportunity to collectively honor Johnny and Matthew’s memory.
During the regular season home opener against the Florida Panthers on October 15, the team will extend their tribute to the fans. All attendees will receive a replica of the No. 13 patch, allowing them to participate in remembering Johnny Gaudreau alongside the players.
Charity Initiatives
This season’s games will also feature a unique 50/50 raffle during the Blue Jackets' four home preseason games, with proceeds directed to the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation. This foundation, likely set up in the memory of the brothers, underscores the team’s commitment to turning a heartbreaking loss into a force for good, supporting causes that were likely dear to Johnny and Matthew.
A Tragic Loss
Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau were involved in a devastating bicycle accident in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, where they were fatally struck by a drunk driver. The incident has not only left a void in the hearts of their loved ones but has also profoundly impacted the wider hockey community. The driver responsible has been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto, a sobering reminder of the consequences of reckless driving.
The Columbus Blue Jackets' season-long tribute to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau is a testament to the indelible mark they left on their team and the sport of hockey. Through helmet stickers, uniform patches, moments of silence, fan involvement, and charitable initiatives, the Blue Jackets are ensuring that their memories will continue to live on both on and off the ice.