John Tortorella had a heartwarming moment during Philadelphia Flyers training camp when he welcomed Guy Gaudreau, the father of the late John and Matthew Gaudreau, to assist with drills. Guy Gaudreau, a former hockey coach, was met with applause and appreciation from the Flyers players, who even shook his hand at the end of practice.
Tortorella expressed his desire to have Gaudreau become more involved in the team’s activities, recognizing the therapeutic value it could bring to him. The Flyers coach had never met Gaudreau before but extended an open invitation for him to return and contribute whenever he pleases.
The tragic loss of John and Matthew Gaudreau in a biking accident deeply affected the hockey community. Despite the heartache, Tortorella and the Flyers organization are committed to supporting the family and honoring the memory of the two brothers.
John Gaudreau, also known as “Johnny Hockey,” was a beloved figure in the NHL and had recently signed a lucrative deal with the Columbus Blue Jackets. His legacy lives on both on and off the ice, as he left a lasting impact on the sport and its fans.
Tortorella emphasized the importance of unity and support in times of tragedy, highlighting the bond that exists between players, coaches, and families in the hockey world. By extending a helping hand to the Gaudreau family, the Flyers are exemplifying the true spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie.
For more NHL news and updates, visit https://apnews.com/hub/nhl
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission.