Columbus Blue Jackets Pay Heartfelt Tribute to Fallen Star Johnny Gaudreau and His Family
The Columbus Blue Jackets are keeping the memory of late hockey star Johnny Gaudreau alive in a truly heartfelt way, and honestly, it’s a total tear-jerker. This past March 1, during the NHL Stadium Series outdoor game against the Detroit Red Wings, the team donned a special outfit inspired by Johnny, who tragically lost his life along with his brother, Matthew, due to an alleged drunk driver back in August 2024. Captain Boone Jenner shared with People Magazine how deeply the team wanted to honor Johnny’s legacy and how vital Meredith Gaudreau—his widow—was in putting this tribute together.
Jenner described the tribute outfit as a reflection of Johnny’s signature style, featuring items like his beloved sweater from the Avalon Surf Club and a classic hat, boots, and sweatpants combo. It’s not about simply wearing something special; it’s about embodying the essence of someone who made a significant impact in a short amount of time. Jenner added that they regularly honor Johnny throughout the season with jerseys in his stall and even patches on their uniforms, but this outdoor game deserved something extra special.
Meredith’s resilience since the tragedy has been nothing short of inspiring, according to Jenner, as she juggles motherhood—raising their kids—and coping with this devastating loss. He mentioned how supportive their local community has been, with fans coming together to keep Johnny’s memory alive in touching ways, like the recent moment when fans sang “Happy Birthday” to Johnny Jr., Johnny’s son, on his first birthday. It’s heartwarming to know that the Columbus fanbase is standing strong for the Gaudreau family during these tough times.
The game was anticipated to attract around 90,000 fans, making it the second-largest gathering in NHL history. And while the focus was on hockey, there was a bigger story rewoven into the fabric of the event: love, loss, and a community that refuses to let a hero be forgotten. All in all, it was a night that blended sportsmanship with an emotional tribute, proving that in the world of hockey, family extends far beyond the rink.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, NHL.com, Sports Illustrated
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