The Columbus Blue Jackets have announced a series of heartfelt tributes to honor the memory of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, who tragically lost their lives in a bicycle accident last month. The 2024-25 season will be dedicated to commemorating their legacy, starting with special helmet stickers that the players will wear across all games, from preseason to the playoffs.
Memorial Helmet Stickers
Beginning with the first preseason game against the Buffalo Sabres on September 23, the Blue Jackets will don blue helmet stickers with gray trim, featuring the name "GAUDREAU" encasing two doves between the numbers 13 and 21. Johnny’s number 13 was emblematic of his NHL career, while Matthew wore number 21 during his collegiate tenure at Boston College. These stickers serve as a poignant tribute to the brothers and will be visible throughout the season.
A Moment of Silence and Unique Raffles
Before their first home preseason game against the St. Louis Blues on September 25, fans and players will observe a moment of silence to honor Johnny and Matthew. This gesture will underscore the deep sense of loss felt by the team and the broader hockey community.
Additionally, a unique 50/50 raffle will take place during all four of the Blue Jackets' home preseason games. The proceeds from these raffles will be donated to the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, aiming to channel the community's grief into meaningful support for causes close to the Gaudreau family’s heart.
Season-Long Memorials
The tributes will continue into the regular season, where the Blue Jackets will face the Minnesota Wild on October 10. Throughout the entire 2024-25 season, the players will wear a special patch bearing Johnny's number 13 on their jerseys. This patch will keep Johnny's memory alive, game after game, reminding everyone of his contributions both on and off the ice.
The commemorations reach a broader audience during the home opener against the Florida Panthers on October 15. Every fan attending the game will receive a replica of the No. 13 patch, forging a tangible connection between the community and the legacy of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau.
A Tragic Loss
The profound sadness surrounding Johnny and Matthew's passing is deeply felt by all who knew them. The brothers were struck by a drunk driver while riding their bicycles in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The driver involved in the accident has been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto. This tragic incident has resonated far beyond the hockey world, highlighting the perils of reckless driving and the importance of community safety.
In honoring Johnny and Matthew, the Blue Jackets not only remember the individuals but also bring attention to the broader message of road safety and the devastating impact of impaired driving. Their tribute throughout the 2024-25 season will serve as a reminder of the fragility of life and the strength of community spirit in the face of sorrow.
The Columbus Blue Jackets’ commitment to memorializing Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau extends beyond the rink, embodying the resilience and compassion of the hockey community. Through helmet stickers, patches, moments of silence, and dedicated raffles, the team pays homage to their legacy, ensuring they are remembered with every stride on the ice.