Dubuque Fighting Saints to Retire Local Hockey Legend's #8

The Dubuque Fighting Saints of the USHL will honor former player legend Johnny Gaudreau by retiring his number 8 in a special pregame ceremony this Saturday, January 11th, 2025, at ImOn Arena. The event precedes the Saints' game against the Sioux City Musketeers.

Credit: Dubuque Fighting Saints

Gaudreau, who played one memorable season with the Fighting Saints, led the team to a Clark Cup victory in 2011, scoring 72 points and earning USHL Rookie of the Year honors. His exceptional play and dedication to the sport have left a lasting impact on the team and its fans.

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Johnny Gaudreau Dubuque Fighting Saints jersey on display before the game between the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Florida Panthers at Nationwide Arena on October 15, 2024 in Columbus, Ohio.

The ceremony will also commemorate Gaudreau’s brother, Matty. Members of the Gaudreau family, including their parents Guy and Jane, sisters Katie and Kristen, and Johnny’s widow, Meredith, will attend the event. NHL star Johnny Gaudreau and his brother were fatally struck by a suspected drunken driver while riding bikes on a New Jersey roadway, just hours before they were to serve as groomsmen in their sister’s wedding.

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USHL Commissioner Glenn Hefferan will introduce the Gaudreau Award, to be given annually to a player exemplifying the qualities of Johnny and Matty Gaudreau: hockey excellence, spirit, and care for others.

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Johnny Gaudreau #13 of the Columbus Blue Jackets poses for a portrait prior to the 2023 NHL All-Star Game at FLA Live Arena on February 04, 2023 in Sunrise, Florida.

Proceeds from the evening’s 50/50 raffle will support the John and Matthew Gaudreau Foundation, contributing to an adaptive playground in South Jersey. The raffle offers tickets priced at $5 for one, $10 for eight, and $20 for eighty-eight, in honor of Gaudreau’s number.

Credit: Martin Rose Getty Images
Johnny Gaudreau of USA celebrates scoring his team's second goal during the 2017 IIHF Ice Hockey World Championship game between USA and Sweden at Lanxess Arena on May 8th, 2017 in Cologne, Germany.

Gaudreau's retired number is sure to inspire future Saints players as it commemorates one of our local bests, having graduated from Dubuque Senior during his time playing for the Saints. Johnny "Hockeys" career, including a national championship at Boston College and seven NHL All-Star appearances, has been widely celebrated. His part-ownership in the Fighting Saints, alongside other notable hockey figures, underscored his commitment to the sport’s future and success in Dubuque.

As always, the game will be live and streamed through Eagle 102.3. It will also be available on KCRG-TV9. The January 11th ceremony promises to be a heartfelt tribute to a beloved player, and his brother, whose legacy continues to inspire.

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