In a unique twist that intertwines joy and somber remembrance, the Columbus Blue Jackets introduced a new practice tradition known as the “Johnny skate.” This concept revolves around a player taking a shot from one end of the rink toward the opposite net. The stakes are simple yet effective: if the shooter scores, the entire team embarks on a celebratory lap around the ice. However, failure to score translates into a grueling three laps for the players, cleverly signifying the number 13—the jersey number worn by the talented Johnny Gaudreau, who played a central role in the Blue Jackets’ story.
What makes this exercise particularly poignant is that during a recent practice session, the shooter missed on purpose, and it was a gesture that transcended mere gameplay. Standing as a guest on the ice was none other than Guy Gaudreau, Johnny’s father. His presence was a tribute to both the joy of the sport and the bittersweet reality of loss, given that Guy recently faced the unimaginable tragedy of losing both his sons to an accident caused by a drunk driver.
The Blue Jackets were gearing up for an emotionally charged home opener against the Florida Panthers, the reigning Stanley Cup champions, when they welcomed Guy Gaudreau to the ice. During practice, he engaged with the players, tapping his stick encouragingly and sharing fist-bumps, showcasing his unwavering love for the sport that shaped his family’s life. The warmth with which the team embraced him echoed Coach Dean Evason’s sentiments: “It was a joy to have him out there.”
Having previously coached at Hollydell Ice Arena and Gloucester Catholic High School in New Jersey, Guy embodies the spirit of a hockey mentor and a father, reinforcing the familial bonds that create the essence of the sport. His presence reminded everyone not just of Johnny’s talent but of the fraternity that exists within hockey—a shared connection that the Blue Jackets hold dear.
The memory of Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, who lost their lives tragically just before their sister Katie’s wedding, continues to resonate profoundly in the hockey community. The Blue Jackets’ forward Sean Kuraly succinctly captured the sentiment by stating, “Just reminds you of the exact same stuff John would do.” This simple yet powerful acknowledgment underscores the impact the Gaudreau family has had, not only on their teammates but within the larger hockey sphere.
Support has poured in from across the NHL, with heartfelt tributes commemorating the brothers. In Calgary, the birthplace of Johnny’s professional career, goalie Dustin Wolf even adorned his mask with a tribute, incorporating both Johnny’s and Matthew’s numbers along with personal touches that signify their favorite treats—purple Gatorade and Skittles. These gestures serve as a reminder that while the brothers are no longer present, their legacy continues to inspire current players and fans alike.
During the practice, Guy Gaudreau was hesitant at first to address the team, opting instead to share silent reflections on the ice. However, he eventually found his voice, which spoke volumes about the depth of his love for hockey and his sons. His presence served as a reminder of resilience in the face of unspeakable loss. Even after the practice concluded, his eagerness to join the Blue Jackets for their morning skate signified a yearning to be close to the very essence of what brought the Gaudreau family joy: the game of hockey.
As the Blue Jackets prepared for their emotional home opener, it became clear that the spirit of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau will be intertwining with their season ahead. With voices raised in tribute and memories celebrated on the ice, the NHL community stands united in grief and remembrance, ensuring that the legacy of these young athletes is not merely honored but lived on, lap by lap, goal by goal.
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