Sports Take

Johnny Gaudreau, number 13 for the Calgary Flames, a 5’9 man who played bigger than he was, and from my own experience a extremely kind hearted, quiet, guy who was an absolute talent on the ice. The impact he had on the community in Calgary is felt even more today with his passing along with his brother Matthew, who were both struck by a vehicle while biking, the night before their sister was to be married. This hit’s so close to home, there will be future NHL players from Calgary that will list Gaudreau an idol they try to emulate, the number 13 will be worn more in the NHL because of Johnny Gaudreau. Number 13 will continue to live on.

I had the fortunate opportunity of meet Johnny and his wife a couple of times while working in the kitchen of one of his favourite restaurants in Calgary. His quiet demeanor was surprising to me, but not at the same time. He would sit around smiling and enjoying the company of his friends and teammates. His wife is also incredibly kind hearted and I was so devastated to hear about her loss, and knowing that there are two kids who now will grow up without their father, not have the chance to see how much their father meant to an entire city of over a million people. Kids in the city if they have a Gaudreau sweater wore them to school in the wake of this devastating tragedy. He did so much for this city and this Flames franchise.

On the ice was entirely different, the quiet guy changed, to a superstar, an all-star, and best player on the Flames since Jarome Iginla. A point a game player over his 9 seasons as a Flame, a dynamic player you wanted on the ice for 60 minutes a game without him getting too tired. His evasiveness and quick hands in close made him a beloved member of the Flames.

I extend my truly heartfelt, deepest, condolences to the Gaudreau family and friends of Johnny, he is an icon in Calgary, we love him, we will miss him dearly.

We love you Johnny, we always have and we always will.

Number 13, Johnny Gaudreau.