Late NHLer Johnny Gaudreau & brother Matthew honored as Family opens playground

The legacy of late NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother Matthew continues to grow far beyond the rink.

On June 4, the Gaudreau family unveiled the “Gaudreau Brothers’ Wings of Hope & The Chrysalis Corner” at Archbishop Damiano School in New Jersey. The fully inclusive playground was funded through more than $500,000 raised by the Gaudreau Family 5K and community donations following the brothers’ tragic deaths in 2024.

MORE: Team USA hockey gives Johnny Gaudreau 2026 Winter Olympics honor

Photos shared by the Gaudreau Family 5K showed parents Jane and Guy Gaudreau standing beside a butterfly-themed dedication board. The plaque reads, “Gaudreau Brothers’ Wings Of Hope & The Chrysalis Corner,” followed by the message: “A place where every child can play, learn and grow.”

The organization highlighted the scale of the effort in a social media post.

“This didn’t happen overnight. It took Jane, Guy, Katie, and Kristen, who turned unimaginable grief into purpose. It took runners, donors, and volunteers who raised over $500,000. It took people from around the world – hockey fans, neighbors, and strangers,” the X post reads.

Another post reflected on the project’s completion, stating: “Yesterday, we watched the love, support and hard work become something 135 children can see, touch, and play on. Forever.”

A lasting tribute for Johnny Gaudreau & Matthew

The playground serves students at Archbishop Damiano School and includes wheelchair-accessible equipment, sensory stations, and adaptive play areas designed for children of all abilities.

A separate dedication board at the site reads: “In memory of John & Matthew Gaudreau. Through the generosity of The Gaudreau 5K.”

The project stands as one of the most meaningful tributes created since the former Columbus Blue Jackets‘ star Johnny and his brother Matthew were killed while cycling in Oldmans Township, New Jersey, on Aug. 29, 2024.

Authorities allege driver Sean M. Higgins struck the brothers while attempting to pass traffic. Higgins faces aggravated manslaughter, reckless vehicular homicide, and related charges. The case is expected to proceed to trial after motions to dismiss were denied earlier this year.

For the hockey community, the playground reflects the same values that made Johnny “Johnny Hockey” one of the sport’s most beloved figures. Months after Team USA honored him during its Olympic gold-medal run, his family’s latest effort ensures his impact will continue to be felt daily — through a place where children can learn, play, and belong.