Philadelphia Flyers head coach John Tortorella has extended a heartfelt gesture to Guy Gaudreau, inviting him to practice sessions to assist with drills. Gaudreau, a seasoned mentor to young players at Hollydell Ice Arena and Gloucester Catholic High School in New Jersey, has found solace in being around the Flyers organization during an incredibly tough time for his family.
The Gaudreau family recently suffered an unimaginable tragedy when John and Matthew Gaudreau were killed by a suspected drunk driver on August 29, a day before their sister Katie's wedding. The driver now faces multiple charges, including two counts of death by auto, reckless driving, and possession of an open container. John Gaudreau, a significant figure in the hockey world, spent his first eight seasons with the Calgary Flames before signing a seven-year, $68 million deal with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2022.
Tortorella Steps Up
Understanding the gravity of the situation, Tortorella made it a point to integrate Guy Gaudreau into the Flyers' practices. "He was hesitant at first, and we kind of let him go at his timetable," Tortorella explained. The coach's approach has been both compassionate and strategic, emphasizing the therapeutic benefits of being involved with the team. "I think it worked out really well today. 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 is keen to ensure that Gaudreau's participation is meaningful. "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." The sentiment underscores the communal nature of sports teams, where support extends beyond the rink.
Community and Coping
The response within the Flyers' organization has been overwhelmingly positive. Tortorella highlighted Gaudreau's well-respected reputation, stating, "A lot of people know him in the organization because of his reputation." His integration into the team environment is seen as beneficial not just for Gaudreau, but for the players and coaches who can offer their support.
Tortorella attended the brothers' funeral in a Philadelphia suburb last month, where he witnessed the strength and resilience of the Gaudreau family. "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."
A Tribute to Lost Loved Ones
Meredith Gaudreau, John Gaudreau's widow, expressed the emotional significance of Guy's involvement with the Flyers. "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 shared. Her words serve as a poignant reminder of the family's shared passion for hockey and their enduring support for each other, even in the face of profound loss.
Tortorella stressed that while the story of the Gaudreau family's tragedy remains, the focus should be on offering meaningful support rather than constant reminders. "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."
As the Flyers organization continues their season, Guy Gaudreau's presence represents the strength of community and the healing power of the sport. In times of indescribable loss, the hockey community has come together to support one of its own, providing both physical and emotional healing on and off the ice.