The Columbus Blue Jackets will be honoring the memory of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau throughout the 2024-25 season, following a tragic bicycle accident that claimed the lives of both brothers last month. The tribute will commence with a heartfelt gesture that will see the players don special helmet stickers starting from their first preseason game against the Buffalo Sabres on September 23.
The helmet stickers, featuring a blue background with gray trim, will prominently display "GAUDREAU" encasing two doves between the numbers 13 and 21. These numbers hold significant meaning as Johnny Gaudreau wore number 13 during his NHL career, and Matthew Gaudreau wore number 21 at Boston College. The stickers will be worn by Columbus players throughout the entire season, serving as a constant reminder of the beloved brothers.
A Season-Long Tribute
The Blue Jackets' tribute extends beyond helmet stickers. A special patch bearing Johnny’s number 13 will be affixed to the team’s jerseys for the duration of the season. This commemorative patch is set to debut during the team's first regular-season game against the Minnesota Wild on October 10. Furthermore, during the home opener against the Florida Panthers on October 15, all fans attending the game will receive a replica of the No. 13 patch, creating a unified and poignant tribute from the team and its supporters.
Special Honors During Preseason
Prior to their home preseason game against the St. Louis Blues on September 25, a moment of silence will be observed by the Blue Jackets in memory of Johnny and Matthew. This solemn tribute allows the team, fans, and the broader hockey community to come together in grieving and honoring the Gaudreau brothers' legacy.
In addition, a unique 50/50 raffle will be held during all four of the Blue Jackets' home preseason games. Proceeds from the raffle will go to the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, further cementing the brothers' enduring impact on the community and the sport.
The Unfortunate Incident
The tragic loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau resulted from a harrowing bicycle accident in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The brothers were struck by a drunk driver, who has since been arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto. The incident has cast a somber shadow over the hockey world, prompting widespread mourning and a concerted effort to remember the brothers for their contributions both on and off the ice.
Honoring Legacy and Community
The Columbus Blue Jackets’ tribute to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau is more than a series of symbolic gestures; it is a testament to the profound impact the brothers had on those around them. By integrating these tributes into their season, the Blue Jackets are ensuring that the legacy of Johnny and Matthew continues to inspire and be remembered by fans and players alike.
As the Blue Jackets embark on their 2024-25 season, each game played with the helmet stickers and jerseys adorned with Johnny’s number 13 will serve as a powerful reminder of the brothers' spirit and the lasting impression they left on the hockey community. Through these heartfelt tributes, the team honors the Gaudreau brothers' memory and underscores the deep bonds and sense of family that permeates the world of sports.