Gaudreau's Road to Recovery Touched by Flyers' Helping Hand
The Philadelphia Flyers, under the guidance of head coach John Tortorella, have always been more than just a team focused on winning games. They embody a community, a support system for those in and around the organization. This became especially evident recently with the outreach to Guy Gaudreau, who has been a mainstay in New Jersey's youth hockey circles, mentoring young players at Hollydell Ice Arena and Gloucester Catholic High School.
Gaudreau's name has been synonymous with hockey, not just due to his dedication at the youth level, but also because of his connection to professional players such as his son, John Gaudreau, a star left wing who signed a seven-year, $68 million deal with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2022 after eight seasons with the Calgary Flames.
Tragedy struck the Gaudreau family on August 29, when John and Matthew Gaudreau were killed by a suspected drunk driver. The heartbreaking incident occurred just a day before their sister Katie's wedding, casting a pall over what should have been a joyous occasion. The driver now faces multiple charges, including two counts of death by auto, reckless driving, and possession of an open container.
In the wake of the tragedy, the Philadelphia Flyers, particularly Tortorella, have extended their support to Guy Gaudreau. Tortorella spoke candidly about his approach, saying, "He was hesitant at first, and we kind of let him go at his timetable." This sensitive approach led to a moment of shared humanity when Tortorella handed Gaudreau his camp book during a recent practice, inviting him to assist with drills and integrate into the team's routine.
"I think it worked out really well today," Tortorella reflected. "I gave him my camp book. We're going to check in next week and see if we can get him out here a couple more times and have him be part of it." Tortorella’s intention behind involving Gaudreau was more than just offering a distraction. "I don't want it to be, 'Just come out here.' I want him to be part of it. I think it will be therapeutic for him to be around us and run some drills."
Guy Gaudreau’s presence is not just about filling a role on the ice; it's about healing and finding solace within a community that understands the profound impact of loss. "A lot of people know him in the organization because of his reputation," Tortorella said, acknowledging the deep roots Gaudreau has within the hockey community.
John Tortorella himself attended the funeral of the brothers last month, held in a Philadelphia suburb. The emotional event left a lasting impression on him. "I thought the two wives were so strong in how they handled themselves. No one can imagine. No one can. I'm hoping to get to know the family. I think a number of coaches want to get to know the family, the girls, Matt's family. It's just horrible what happened. It's still pretty fresh. It's here. It's with us. Down the street. We just want to be part of it and try and help."
The sentiment was echoed by Meredith Gaudreau, John's widow. "John & Matty would love this. They're both so proud of their dad, I know this made them smile as they watched down from heaven," she said, appreciative of the Flyers’ efforts to embrace Guy Gaudreau during such a difficult time.
For Tortorella and the Flyers, the focus remains on offering genuine support. "We don't want it to be an everyday story. We just want to help. To be in a locker room, coach to coach, player to coach, guys talking to him, I just hope it helps a little bit," he said, emphasizing the importance of community and connection in the healing process.
As the Flyers continue their season, they do so with the knowledge that their roles extend beyond the ice. By offering a place of comfort and purpose for Guy Gaudreau, they not only honor the memory of John and Matthew but also reinforce the strength and compassion that defines the broader hockey family.