The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to honor the memories of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau throughout the 2024-25 season in a deeply touching tribute. The brothers, tragically lost in a bicycle accident last month, will be remembered through various heartfelt gestures by the team and its fans.
Helmet Stickers and Special Patches
One of the most visible tributes will be the special helmet stickers that the Blue Jackets players will don, starting from their first preseason game against the Buffalo Sabres on September 23. These stickers are designed with a thoughtful touch: they are blue with gray trim and feature "GAUDREAU" encasing two doves, symbolizing peace, along with the numbers 13 and 21. The numbers have special significance as Johnny Gaudreau wore number 13 during his illustrious NHL career, while his brother Matthew wore number 21 at Boston College.
Furthermore, the team will wear a special patch bearing Johnny’s number 13 on their jerseys throughout the entire season. This patch will serve as a constant reminder of Johnny's presence both on and off the ice, encapsulating his enduring legacy within the sport and the team.
Moment of Silence and 50/50 Raffle
The Blue Jackets are also planning to hold a moment of silence for Johnny and Matthew before their first home preseason game against the St. Louis Blues on September 25. This solemn moment will give players, staff, and fans a chance to collectively honor the memories of the Gaudreau brothers.
In addition to these tributes, a unique 50/50 raffle will be conducted during all four of the Blue Jackets' home preseason games. The proceeds from these raffles will go to the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, an organization set up in the wake of their passing to support various charitable causes cherished by the Gaudreau family. This initiative offers fans an opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause while participating in the excitement of the games.
Season and Home Opener Tributes
The first regular season game against the Minnesota Wild will take place on October 10. During this game, the team will continue to wear the commemorative patches as a testament to their commitment to honoring Johnny's memory throughout the season.
Perhaps one of the most poignant tributes will be during the Blue Jackets' home opener against the Florida Panthers on October 15. On this day, every fan attending the game will receive a replica of the No. 13 patch. This gesture allows the community to collectively participate in remembering Johnny, fostering a sense of unity and shared grief, and turning the arena into a sea of support and remembrance.
The Tragic Accident
Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau's tragic accident left a deep void not only in their family but also within the hockey community at large. They were struck by a drunk driver while riding bicycles in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The driver has since been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto. The incident has highlighted the ever-present dangers of drunk driving and has spurred ongoing conversations about road safety and responsibility.
As the Blue Jackets gear up for the 2024-25 season, their commitment to honoring Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau is a powerful testament to the impact the brothers had both within and beyond the world of hockey. These thoughtful and meaningful tributes will ensure that their spirits continue to inspire and resonate with all who knew and loved them.