ECHC Mourns the Loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau

The Empire Collegiate Hockey Conference (ECHC) joins the entire hockey community in mourning the tragic loss of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, who passed away on August 29, 2024, in a devastating accident in Salem County, New Jersey. The Gaudreau brothers, both accomplished hockey players, were struck by a vehicle while biking. The driver, now facing accusations of driving under the influence, has become a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving.

Johnny Gaudreau, known affectionately as “Johnny Hockey,” had an illustrious career in the NHL, where he was celebrated not only for his on-ice prowess but also for his character and leadership. His younger brother, Matthew Gaudreau, also made significant contributions to the sport as a player, and was transitioning into coaching. Their tragic passing has left a void in the hearts of many, particularly within the New Jersey hockey community, where their influence was deeply felt.

As a Mid-Atlantic-based conference, the ECHC feels this loss acutely. One of our member teams, Rutgers University, shared a poignant tribute to the Gaudreau brothers, emphasizing the impact they had on their players and the broader community.

Rutgers University’s commitment to wearing #13 in honor of Johnny Gaudreau is a powerful symbol of respect and remembrance. The ECHC fully supports this initiative and encourages other teams across collegiate hockey to join in a tribute, not only to honor the Gaudreau brothers, but also to advocate for safer practices within our community.

The ECHC understands that social activities often accompany our games and events, and we take this opportunity to emphasize the importance of responsible behavior. We recognize that drinking can be an activity that occurs during our regular season and playoff games, and we strongly encourage the use of rideshare services, taxis, or the assignment of a designated driver. The safety of our players, fans, and community members is paramount, and we urge everyone to make responsible choices.

In this time of sorrow, the ECHC stands united in support of the Gaudreau family and the broader hockey community. The legacy of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau will continue to inspire us all, and we are committed to honoring their memory by promoting safety and responsibility in every aspect of our sport.

As we move forward, the ECHC will carry the memory of the Gaudreau brothers with us, striving to make our hockey community not only stronger but safer for all.