The Columbus Blue Jackets will wear a special sticker on their helmets throughout the season to honour Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, the team announced Wednesday.
The sticker features GAUDREAU, two doves between the numbers 13, which Johnny wore throughout his career, and 21, which Matthew wore at Boston College.
Johnny, who played for the Blue Jackets and Calgary Flames, and Matthew died last month when they were struck by a suspected drunk driver while riding bicycles in New Jersey.
The Blue Jackets will hold a moment of silence in remembrance of the brothers prior to their first pre-season game on Sept. 25.
Proceeds from the team’s 50/50 draw raised during the first game will go to the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation.
Beginning with the club’s first regular season game at the Minnesota Wild on Oc. 10, and continuing throughout the season, Blue Jackets players will wear a patch featuring Johnny’s No. 13 on their jerseys.
In lieu of the club’s typical opening night activities, the Blue Jackets will celebrate the memory of the Gaudreau brothers when they host the Florida Panthers on Oct. 15. All fans in attendance that night will receive a “13” patch like the ones players will be wearing on their jerseys.
