The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to honor the memories of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau throughout the entirety of the 2024-25 season. Both brothers tragically lost their lives in a bicycle accident last month, leaving a massive void in the hearts of many.
Honoring the Gaudreau Brothers
In a move that underscores the bond within the hockey community, the Blue Jackets will don special helmet stickers bearing the Gaudreau name. These stickers will be blue with gray trim and will feature "GAUDREAU" encasing two doves between the numbers 13 and 21. Johnny Gaudreau, who had a storied NHL career, wore number 13, while his brother Matthew sported number 21 during his time at Boston College.
The tribute begins on September 23, when the Blue Jackets face off against the Buffalo Sabres in their first preseason game. The significance of this gesture is profound, acknowledging the contributions of both brothers to the sport and their indelible impact on those who knew them.
A Season-long Dedication
These helmet stickers aren't just for preseason. Columbus players will wear them throughout the entire 2024-25 season, a constant reminder of the Gaudreau brothers' legacy. This tribute will be complemented by a special patch bearing Johnny’s number 13 on the players' jerseys, which will also be worn for the entire season.
The Blue Jackets are scheduled to hold a solemn moment of silence before their first home preseason game against the St. Louis Blues on September 25. This gesture will serve as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the close-knit nature of the hockey community.
Supporting the Gaudreau Foundation
In addition to the visual tributes, the team's commitment extends to financial support for a cause close to the Gaudreau family. A unique 50/50 raffle will take place during all four of the Blue Jackets' home preseason games, with proceeds directed to the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation. This foundation will undoubtedly continue the brothers' legacy by supporting meaningful initiatives.
Season Opener and Home Opener Tributes
The regular season kicks off on October 10, when the Blue Jackets face the Minnesota Wild. The team’s dedication to honoring Johnny Gaudreau will be prominently displayed, with players wearing the special patch throughout the game.
Fans attending the home opener against the Florida Panthers on October 15 will receive a heartfelt memento: a replica of the No. 13 patch. This gesture ensures that the broader Blue Jackets community can participate in remembering and celebrating the lives of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau.
A Community in Mourning
The tragic accident that claimed the lives of Johnny and Matthew occurred while they were riding bicycles in Oldmans Township, New Jersey. The driver involved was arrested and charged with two counts of death by auto, bringing an even deeper sense of loss and urgency to the call for safer roads and responsible driving.
As the Blue Jackets embark on this season of remembrance, their tributes will serve as a powerful testament to the impact of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. Through helmet stickers, jersey patches, moments of silence, and charitable initiatives, the team and its fans will honor the lives and legacies of two remarkable individuals taken too soon.