The Columbus Blue Jackets will spend the entirety of the 2024-25 season paying tribute to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, who tragically lost their lives in a bicycle accident last month. In their honor, the Blue Jackets will wear special helmet stickers and jerseys, ensuring that their memory remains a constant presence throughout the season.
Tragedy Strikes
Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, beloved members of both the hockey and local communities, were struck by a drunk driver while riding their bicycles in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. This devastating event led to the arrest of the driver, who faces two counts of death by auto. The loss of the Gaudreau brothers has left an indelible mark on all who knew them and has rallied the Columbus Blue Jackets organization to honor their memories with heartfelt tributes.
Honoring the Gaudreau Brothers
Starting with their first preseason game against the Buffalo Sabres on September 23, the Blue Jackets players will don special helmet stickers. These stickers, blue with gray trim, feature the name "GAUDREAU" encasing two doves between the numbers 13 and 21. These numbers hold significant importance as Johnny and Matthew's jersey numbers: Johnny wore 13 during his NHL career, and Matthew wore 21 at Boston College.
The tribute will extend throughout the entire season. Before their first home preseason game against the St. Louis Blues on September 25, the Blue Jackets will observe a moment of silence to commemorate the lives of Johnny and Matthew. This solemn event will be followed by a unique 50/50 raffle held during all four of the team’s home preseason games, with proceeds going to the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, a cause close to the hearts of the Gaudreau family.
A Season Dedicated to Remembrance
When the regular season begins, the Blue Jackets will enhance their tribute by wearing a special patch bearing Johnny’s number 13 on their jerseys. This tribute will be prominently displayed throughout every game of the season, a constant reminder of Johnny's impact on and off the ice. On October 10, the Blue Jackets will play their first regular-season game against the Minnesota Wild, further highlighting their dedication to honoring the Gaudreau brothers.
The home opener against the Florida Panthers on October 15 will feature an additional, heartfelt gesture for the fans. Each attendee will receive a replica of the No. 13 patch, allowing the entire community to share in the commemoration. This gesture aims to create a collective remembrance that goes beyond the players, uniting fans and the organization in paying tribute to the Gaudreau family.
Legacy and Impact
The legacy of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau extends far beyond their athletic prowess. Both brothers were celebrated for their character, sense of community, and the positive influence they had on everyone around them. These tributes throughout the season are not just about remembering the numbers they wore, but about celebrating the lives they lived and the lasting impact they left on the hockey world and their communities.
In a sport that often celebrates victories and stats, the Columbus Blue Jackets' commitment to honoring Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau reminds us of the deeper connections and the enduring bonds formed within the hockey community. As the Blue Jackets take to the ice this season, the memories of Johnny and Matthew will be right there with them, etched in the helmets, jerseys, and hearts of everyone who follows the game.