Emotional Tribute as Dubuque Fighting Saints Retire Johnny Gaudreau’s No. 8 Jersey
In a heartfelt ceremony that tugged at the heartstrings of many, the Dubuque Fighting Saints retired the No. 8 jersey of the late NHL star Johnny Gaudreau on Saturday night. This poignant event took place just before their United States Hockey League (USHL) game against Sioux City, marking a significant moment in the team’s history and the community’s collective memory.
Johnny Gaudreau, a name that resonates with hockey fans across the nation, tragically passed away alongside his brother Matthew on August 29. The brothers were struck by an SUV while riding bicycles on a rural road in New Jersey, near their hometown of Carneys Point. The driver involved in this tragic incident has been charged with their deaths and recently pleaded not guilty, having declined a prosecution offer of 35 years in prison.
Johnny Gaudreau’s legacy in the USHL is profound. He was named the league’s rookie of the year in the 2010-11 season, his only season in the junior league. During that time, he played a pivotal role in leading the Dubuque Fighting Saints to a Clark Cup title. His impact on the team and the league was so significant that in 2018, he became a minority owner of the club, further cementing his bond with the team and its fans.
In a touching tribute to both Johnny and Matthew, USHL commissioner Glenn Hefferan announced the creation of the Gaudreau Award. This award will be given to the player “who best embodies the legacy of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau,” ensuring that their contributions to the sport and their spirit will continue to inspire future generations of hockey players. Matthew Gaudreau also left his mark on the USHL, having played with the Omaha Lancers.
The ceremony was not just a moment of remembrance but also a celebration of Johnny Gaudreau’s life and achievements. The Fighting Saints’ fans, players, and staff came together to honor a player who had given so much to the team and the sport. The emotional weight of the evening was palpable, as those in attendance reflected on the impact Johnny had on and off the ice.
As the game commenced, the Fighting Saints channeled the emotional energy of the ceremony into their performance, ultimately securing a 4-3 victory in overtime against Sioux City. This win was a fitting tribute to Johnny, whose competitive spirit and dedication to the game were well-known.
- Johnny Gaudreau: USHL Rookie of the Year 2010-11
- Clark Cup Champion with Dubuque Fighting Saints
- Minority Owner of Dubuque Fighting Saints since 2018
- Gaudreau Award established in his and Matthew’s honor
The retirement of Johnny Gaudreau’s No. 8 jersey is more than just a symbolic gesture; it is a testament to the indelible mark he left on the Dubuque Fighting Saints and the broader hockey community. His legacy will continue to inspire young players who aspire to reach the heights he achieved in his career.
As the hockey world mourns the loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, the creation of the Gaudreau Award ensures that their memory will live on, inspiring future generations to embody the same passion, dedication, and sportsmanship that the Gaudreau brothers exemplified.
Originally Written by: Associated Press
