USA Hockey will be paying tribute to the memories of brothers Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau by having all national teams wear a special helmet decal throughout the upcoming season. The announcement was made by the governing body recently, unveiling a decal that includes a starry backdrop floating towards the sky, with the names and jersey numbers of Johnny (13) and Matthew (21) at the center.
Tragically, the New Jersey-born brothers lost their lives in a devastating accident involving a suspected drunk driver while cycling in their home state on August 29. The night before the accident, both brothers were supposed to be groomsmen at their sister Katie’s wedding. The hockey community was deeply saddened by this loss, and USA Hockey’s decision to honor them in this manner is a touching gesture.
Pat Kelleher, the executive director of USA Hockey, expressed that Johnny and Matthew, along with their families, will always be a part of the USA Hockey family. The decal serves as a way to remember the brothers and keep their passion for hockey and life alive in the hearts of many.
Apart from the U.S. national teams, two teams from USA Hockey’s national team development program, as well as the men’s and women’s sled teams, will also be wearing the decal to honor the Gaudreau brothers. Johnny, who had a successful career with the Calgary Flames and the Columbus Blue Jackets, had represented Team USA at various international competitions, including winning a gold medal at the 2013 IIHF World Junior Championship.
Matthew, on the other hand, played for the USHL’s Omaha Lancers before moving on to Boston College. He then pursued a career in the American Hockey League and ECHL, showcasing his talent and passion for the sport at different levels. Both brothers left a lasting impact on those who knew them, and the hockey community will always remember them fondly.
The tribute through the helmet decal is a beautiful way to honor the memories of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, ensuring that their legacy lives on within the sport they loved. The hockey world stands united in paying respects to these remarkable individuals and cherishing the moments they brought to the game.