Gaudreau Brothers Honored With Special Needs Playground

When the sign reading "The Gaudreau Brothers' Wings of Hope & Chrysalis Corner" was unveiled this week, Jane Gaudreau could only think about how excited her sons would have been to see it.

The new adaptive playground at Archbishop Damiano School in Westville, New Jersey, gives children with special needs a space designed just for them. It stands as a living tribute to Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau, brothers who died after being struck by an alleged drunk driver while biking in August 2024.

The playground became reality through The Gaudreau Family 5K, an annual run the family created to honor the brothers. Jane Gaudreau shared that the event raised 98 percent of the funds needed, with the community coming together to complete the build.

"This school has been part of our family for so long," Jane said at the dedication. "I'm so proud that the playground is named in honor of them."

Johnny had spent nearly a decade playing for the Calgary Flames before joining the Columbus Blue Jackets. Matthew played college hockey at Boston College alongside his brother, then continued in professional leagues. Both were known for their love of community and family.

Why This Inspires

The Gaudreau family could have retreated into grief after losing Johnny and Matthew. Instead, they channeled their pain into creating something that will bring joy to countless children for years to come.

Archbishop Damiano School serves students with special needs, making this playground more than just play equipment. It's an accessible space where every child can experience the freedom and fun of outdoor play, regardless of their abilities.

The U.S. Men's Hockey team honored Johnny's memory earlier this year at the Olympic Games in Milan, celebrating their gold medal victory with his No. 13 jersey and his children. It was another reminder of how many lives the brothers touched.

Now, children at Archbishop Damiano School will create their own joyful memories on swings and slides that bear the Gaudreau name, turning a family's darkest moment into a beacon of hope for their community.