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Guy Gaudreau, father of Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Gaudreau, was seen practicing puck shooting with the Philadelphia Flyers. Both his sons lost their lives in a tragic biking accident in Oldmans Township, New Jersey on August 29.
Travis Ballinghoff, producer of the Nasty Knuckles podcast, shared a video of Guy on X (formerly Twitter). The video showed him near the goal, shooting pucks with the Flyers' coaching staff.
The caption read,
“Johnny and Matty’s dad, Guy Gaudreau, is on the ice with the Flyers and their coaching staff this morning."
Fans quickly jumped into the comment section to share their opinions.
“That’s like therapy for him. 👍,” One fan commented, appreciating Guy’s love for hockey.
"I know both of them are smiling right now because of this. Great job to the Flyers organization." another fan said.
"Most wholesome thing I’ve seen in a long while. Bless that man and bless that team for opening up their skate for him." a fan wrote.
Here are some more reactions from fans on X to Johnny Gaudreau's father practicing:
"My heart breaks for this family. It must be so emotional for him being on the ice 💔" a fan said.
"Say what you want about Coach "Torts" but I have always said he is a "class act" and what he and the Flyers did by inviting Coach Gaudreau to participate in a practice as part of his 'healing' process was a wonderful gesture. Kudos to John Tortorella & the Flyers organization." another said.
"That is just so amazing and sad all at the same time. I hope he enjoys it. Must not be easy." a fan mentioned.
Columbus Blue Jackets plan to honor Johnny Gaudreau and brother Matthew
The Columbus Blue Jackets will wear a No. 13 patch this season to honor Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Gaudreau. Both brothers were tragically killed by a suspected drunk driver in August. Fans attending the home opener on October 15 will receive a No. 13 patch, and a tribute for the brothers will take place during the game.
The Blue Jackets will also wear a special helmet sticker throughout the 2024-25 season. Proceeds from the team's 50/50 raffle will go to the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation.
The Gaudreau brothers were struck by a car driven by Sean Higgins, who reportedly admitted to drinking before the accident. Higgins faces charges, including two counts of death by auto.
The hockey community has shown support, with Montreal Canadiens player Cole Caufield changing his jersey number to 13 in Johnny Gaudreau's honor.
