Fighting Saints to Retire Johnny Gaudreau’s Jersey Number
Honoring a Hockey Legend and His Late Brother
The Dubuque Fighting Saints of the United States Hockey League will retire Johnny Gaudreau’s jersey number 8 on Saturday, in a ceremony honoring him and his late brother, Matthew. The event will take place at the arena in eastern Iowa, with the Gaudreaus’ parents, siblings, and Johnny’s widow, Meredith, in attendance.
A Tribute to a Legendary Player
Gaudreau’s number 8 will be the first to be retired in franchise history. He was the leading scorer in the 2010-11 season and led the team to winning the Clark Cup as USHL champions. "He was one of the better players in the history of the team," said Peter Luukko, part-owner of the Fighting Saints.
A Tragic Loss
Gaudreau and his brother, Matthew, died on August 29, 2023, when they were struck by an SUV while riding bicycles on a rural New Jersey road near their hometown of Carneys Point. The driver charged with killing them pleaded not guilty earlier this week after turning down a prosecution offer of 35 years in prison.
A Legacy in Hockey
Gaudreau’s jersey number 8 will be raised to the rafters, alongside his story of excellence in hockey, spirit of the game, and care and responsibility. The Fighting Saints will donate proceeds from their 50/50 drawing during the game against the Sioux City Musketeers to the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, which will fund an adaptive playground at a school for kids with disabilities in South Jersey.
A Community Comes Together
"We have to remember each other, support each other," said Luukko, a former NHL executive. "It’s a very tight-knit community, and you don’t want to ever forget those who came before you, whether it’s a veteran player or for something as tragic as the accident with the Gaudreau brothers."
Conclusion
The Dubuque Fighting Saints’ decision to retire Johnny Gaudreau’s jersey number 8 is a testament to his exceptional hockey skills, as well as his dedication to the sport and his community. The ceremony will be a moving tribute to his memory, and a reminder of the importance of honoring those who have made a significant impact on the game.
FAQs
Q: Why is Johnny Gaudreau’s jersey number being retired?
A: Gaudreau’s jersey number 8 will be the first to be retired in franchise history, in recognition of his outstanding hockey career and his tragic death.
Q: What is the Gaudreau Award?
A: The Gaudreau Award will be given to a player who embodies Johnny and Matthew’s qualities of excellence in hockey, spirit of the game, and care and responsibility.
Q: What is the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation?
A: The foundation will fund an adaptive playground at a school for kids with disabilities in South Jersey, in memory of the Gaudreau brothers.
