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Katie Gaudreau, sister of the late NHL star Johnny Gaudreau, shared an emotional tribute to their father Guy Gaudreau after he joined the Columbus Blue Jackets for a practice skate.
Guy Gaudreau, who coached Johnny and Matthew at Hollydell Ice Arena and Gloucester Catholic High School in New Jersey, joined the Blue Jackets practice. The team shared a video on Instagram with the caption:
"Guest Coach Guy Gaudreau joins Dean Evason’s staff on the ice for practice ahead of tomorrow night’s game."
Katie Gaudreau posted a heartfelt note on IG alongside a clip of her father skating with the team.
"So proud of my dad." Katie wrote." My brothers and him shared the most special bond between hockey that nobody would ever understand. He never... I mean never missed a game or a post game praise/coaching opportunity. He was their biggest fans when it game to them as a player or coach.."
She added:
"As much as this hurts I know the boys are so proud of him. He will start a new bond with Johnny, Tripp, and all of his grandsons just like he had with John and Matthew."
Katie also reflected on her father’s role in their hockey journey:
"The reason the world of hockey got John and Matty was because of Coach Guy."
Columbus coach Dean Evason praised Guy:
"Johnny Gaudreau was a rink rat. The apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Guy just wanted to be on the ice and seemed to enjoy every moment."
The Blue Jackets will honor Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau before their game against the Florida Panthers. The team has already made meaningful tributes to Johnny, including replacing their postgame award with a donkey hat in his honor.
Katie's message for Johnny Gaudreau's daughter on her second birthday
On Oct. 1st, Katie Gaudreau shared a sweet birthday message for Johnny's daughter, Noa Harper. Noa turned two, and Katie posted a video collage to mark the day. She wrote,
"Happy 2nd Birthday to our Noa Harper. John’s twin and the girl that brings us more joy than we could ever imagine."
Katie also reflected on Johnny Gaudreau’s love for Noa:
"Out of all his accomplishments, you were his greatest. No award or goal could ever compare to being your daddy."
She promised to share stories about Johnny Gaudreau with Noa and make memories that Johnny would have loved.
