The Columbus Blue Jackets are paying a heartfelt tribute to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, the late brothers whose lives were tragically cut short in a bicycle accident last month. The upcoming 2024-25 NHL season will serve as a year-long homage to their memory, with several poignant gestures planned by the organization.
Special Helmet Stickers
The Blue Jackets will honor the Gaudreau brothers by donning special helmet stickers throughout the season. Starting from their first preseason game against the Buffalo Sabres on September 23, every Columbus player will sport a decal featuring "GAUDREAU" encasing two doves between the numbers 13 and 21. These numbers hold great significance: Johnny Gaudreau wore No. 13 during his NHL career, while his brother, Matthew, wore No. 21 during his time at Boston College. The stickers will be blue with gray trim, blending seamlessly with the team’s colors.
A Moment of Silence and Charitable Efforts
In addition to the helmet stickers, the Blue Jackets will hold a moment of silence for Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau before their first home preseason game against the St. Louis Blues on September 25. This somber occasion will allow players, fans, and officials to reflect on the lives of the Gaudreau brothers and the indelible mark they left on those who knew them.
Moreover, the team has organized a unique 50/50 raffle that will run during all four of their home preseason games. The proceeds from these raffles will benefit the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, ensuring that the legacy of the brothers includes a positive impact on the community.
Season-Long Tributes
The tributes will extend into the regular season, beginning with the home opener against the Florida Panthers on October 15. On this night, all fans attending the game will receive a replica of the No. 13 patch that the team will wear throughout the entire season. This initiative will allow the Blue Jackets’ community to share in the memory of Johnny Gaudreau, fostering a sense of unity and remembrance.
The team's first regular-season game, set against the Minnesota Wild on October 10, will mark the debut of another season-long tribute: a special patch bearing Johnny’s number 13 will be featured on the jerseys of Columbus players. This subtle yet impactful gesture will serve as a constant reminder of Johnny Gaudreau's influence and the tragic circumstances that led to the brothers' untimely passing.
Background on the Tragedy
Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau were struck by a drunk driver while riding their bicycles in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The accident not only robbed the community of two beloved figures but also underscored the irresponsible behavior that can have devastating consequences. The driver involved in the accident has been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto, sending a clear message about the legal ramifications of such reckless actions.
Incorporating these poignant tributes, the Columbus Blue Jackets aim to honor the memory of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau throughout the 2024-25 season. By adorning their gear with meaningful symbols and organizing charitable efforts, the team serves as a powerful reminder of the bonds that hold the hockey community together, even in times of profound loss.