The Columbus Blue Jackets have announced an emotional tribute set to resonate through the 2024-25 season in honor of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. The brothers were tragically lost in a bicycle accident last month, leaving an indelible mark on the hockey community and beyond.
A Heartfelt Tribute
To memorialize Johnny and Matthew, the Blue Jackets will be adorning their helmets with special stickers starting from their first preseason game against the Buffalo Sabres on September 23. The stickers, a poignant blue with gray trim, will feature "GAUDREAU" encasing two doves between the numbers 13 and 21—symbols deeply connected to the brothers. Johnny wore number 13 during his successful NHL career, while Matthew wore 21 at Boston College.
The sense of loss felt by the team and fans alike is profound, and the Blue Jackets have committed to wearing these stickers throughout the entire season, ensuring that the memories of Johnny and Matthew remain central to their journey.
Moments of Silence and Special Events
The remembrance won't end on the ice. Before their first home preseason game against the St. Louis Blues on September 25, the team will hold a moment of silence to honor the brothers. This solemn event will allow fans and players to collectively mourn and remember the lives lost.
In addition, the Blue Jackets will host a unique 50/50 raffle during all four of their home preseason games. All proceeds will be directed to the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, furthering the brothers' legacy by supporting community and charitable endeavors that align with their values and passions.
Season-Long Tributes
The first regular season game on October 10 against the Minnesota Wild will see the introduction of a special jersey patch. Each Columbus player will wear a patch bearing Johnny’s number 13 throughout the season, a constant reminder of the Gaudreaus’ impact on and off the rink.
A particularly touching homage is planned for the Blue Jackets' home opener against the Florida Panthers on October 15. All fans in attendance will receive a replica of the No. 13 patch, allowing the entire Columbus community to participate in the tribute and carry a piece of Johnny’s memory with them.
Reflecting on the Tragedy
The tragic accident that took the lives of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau occurred in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The brothers were struck by a drunk driver while riding their bicycles, an unfortunate and preventable incident that has left the community in grief. The driver responsible for the accident was subsequently arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto, a somber reminder of the devastating repercussions of such negligence.
The Blue Jackets' ongoing tributes serve as a testament to Johnny and Matthew’s enduring legacy. Through helmet stickers, jersey patches, moments of silence, and charitable initiatives, the team ensures that the brothers will be remembered and honored throughout the season. With each game, the Columbus Blue Jackets pay homage to two lives that have touched countless hearts, continuing to inspire both on and off the ice.