In a poignant display of memory and camaraderie, the Columbus Blue Jackets have introduced the “Johnny skate,” a special practice tradition dedicated to the late Johnny Gaudreau, who tragically lost his life in a recent incident alongside his brother, Matthew. This unique practice ritual involves players taking a shot from one end of the ice toward the opposite goal. Successfully scoring results in a single lap around the rink, while failing to score means the players must skate three laps—symbolically tied to the brothers with the numbers 1 and 3, representing Johnny’s jersey number. The genesis of this tradition extends beyond mere numbers; it encapsulates the love, passion, and community spirit of hockey.
On the day that this new tradition took its initial stride, the atmosphere was markedly charged with emotion, as players welcomed Guy Gaudreau, the father of Johnny and Matthew, onto the ice. This moment came just ahead of the Blue Jackets’ highly anticipated home opener against the reigning Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers. Guy’s presence not only honored his sons but also rekindled fond memories of their passion for hockey. He engaged with players and coaches alike, showering them with encouragement and camaraderie—a testament to the warm and inviting culture that hockey embodies.
Blue Jackets coach Dean Evason summed it up succinctly, stating, “It was a joy to have him out there.” Such sentiments underline the emotional weight of the occasion, serving as a reminder of the familial bonds that hockey promotes, not just within teams but across the sport as a whole.
Johnny Gaudreau was not just another player on the roster; he was a star whose impact resonated beyond the ice. His untimely demise, alongside that of his brother, has left a significant void in both the Columbus community and the broader NHL fraternity. As tributes continue to pour in, the indelible mark left by Johnny and Matthew is evident in the responses evoked from across the hockey world. Players and fans have united in mourning, showcasing the power of community that sports often bring.
During a practice session, Guy Gaudreau not only observed his son’s teammates but also took on an active role in affirming their spirits. His interactions revealed the shared love for the game, a fondness that transcends individual success and elevates a sense of collective purpose. Sean Kuraly, a forward for the Blue Jackets, noted that seeing Guy reminded everyone of the small gestures—like fist bumps and encouragement—that Johnny frequently exhibited when interacting with his teammates.
Guy Gaudreau’s participation in the practice was predicated upon a similar gesture made by the Philadelphia Flyers, illustrating the importance of solidarity in the sport. By facilitating this connection, the Blue Jackets effectively mirrored the supportive nature of the NHL, and in doing so, reaffirmed the brothers’ lasting legacy in the community. The bond established on the ice echoed throughout the league, setting a standard for how the hockey community can come together to support one another through adversity.
The emotional weight of the upcoming game against the Panthers looms large, not only for the Blue Jackets but for the entire league. As franchises across the NHL partake in honoring the Gaudreau brothers, the communal spirit is palpable. For many, it serves as a reminder of the transient nature of life and the importance of cherishing every moment spent with loved ones.
Anticipating Tomorrow
The practice escalated in sentiment when Guy was asked about being part of the morning skate the following day. His eagerness to join affirms the unbroken bond between him and the Blue Jackets, as he expresses a desire to remain near the very heart of the community that cherished his sons. Coach Evason’s remark—“He just wants to be around”—serves as an apt encapsulation of the emotional ties that bind families and teams in the world of sports.
In recognizing the lives of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, the Columbus Blue Jackets are not just honoring two individuals; they are celebrating the essence of togetherness that defines hockey. The “Johnny skate” symbolizes more than practice; it stands as a bridge connecting past, present, and future, ensuring that the legacy of the Gaudreau brothers will never fade from the hearts of those who love the game.