As the Columbus Blue Jackets gear up for the 2024-25 season, their hearts are heavy with loss, but their spirits are resolute in honoring two individuals who meant so much to the hockey community. Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, whose lives were tragically cut short in a bicycle accident last month, will be remembered throughout the season with a series of heartfelt tributes.
Special Helmet Stickers to Honor Gaudreaus
The Blue Jackets players will don special helmet stickers in honor of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, starting from their first preseason game against the Buffalo Sabres on September 23. The stickers are a poignant tribute, featuring a blue background with gray trim and "GAUDREAU" encasing two doves between the numbers 13 and 21 — a nod to the numbers they wore during their careers. Johnny Gaudreau proudly sported the number 13 during his illustrious NHL career, while Matthew wore number 21 during his time at Boston College.
A Season-Long Tribute
This homage will extend beyond the preseason, as the Columbus players will wear these special helmet stickers throughout the entire 2024-25 season. The team will take a moment to honor Johnny and Matthew with a moment of silence before their first home preseason game against the St. Louis Blues on September 25. Such gestures reflect the organization's dedication to keeping their memories alive as they navigate the upcoming season.
Giving Back to the Community
The Blue Jackets' tribute extends off the ice as well. During all four of the team's home preseason games, a unique 50/50 raffle will be held. Proceeds from these raffles will benefit the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, ensuring their legacy includes giving back to the community. This foundation will serve as a means to support various local initiatives and honor the lives of Johnny and Matthew.
Home Opener and Regular Season Plans
The first regular season game against the Minnesota Wild is slated for October 10. As part of the ongoing tributes, the team will wear a special patch bearing Johnny’s number 13 on their jerseys for the entire season. This subtle yet powerful gesture is a constant reminder of Johnny's impact on the ice and within the community.
A particularly moving tribute is planned for the Blue Jackets' home opener against the Florida Panthers on October 15. On that night, every fan attending the game will receive a replica of the No. 13 patch, further embedding Johnny Gaudreau's memory into the hearts of the Columbus faithful.
Tragic Accident's Aftermath
The Gaudreau brothers were struck by a drunk driver while riding their bicycles in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The tragic accident led to the arrest of the driver, who has been charged with two counts of death by auto. This incident has had a profound impact not just on their family but also on the broader hockey community.
As the Columbus Blue Jackets embark on the 2024-25 season, their commitment to honoring Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau is evident in every carefully planned tribute. From helmet stickers and jersey patches to community support and fan engagement, the organization's efforts ensure that the legacy of the Gaudreau brothers will continue to inspire and resonate throughout the hockey world.