Gaudreau family honors sons through free youth hockey program

SEWELL, N.J. (WPVI) -- Guy Gaudreau stepped back onto the ice at Hollydell Ice Arena - the rink he considers home - to help dozens of young children learn to skate and play hockey, continuing a family legacy shaped by the sport and marked by loss.

Gaudreau worked with 38 children ages 3 to 12, offering encouragement as they navigated the ice.

He spent decades at the rink and raised his sons, Johnny and Matthew, there.

"I spent 30 years here running the rink as hockey director, and John and Matt pretty much lived here with me," he said.

The Gaudreau Family Foundation launched the Learn-to-Skate/Learn-to-Play Ice Hockey Program in memory of Johnny and Matthew, who were killed in a crash two years ago. Their mother, Jane Gaudreau, said the program helps the family cope.

"As hard as it is for Guy and I, it really does help us because it just makes us feel like we're honoring their legacy and we're doing something for them."

"I know how much they love the game of hockey and I love the game of hockey, and it kinda helps me out too because I'm involved and it keeps my mind off a lot of things."

Johnny and Mathew Gaudreau

More than 360 children applied for the free program, though only dozens were selected.

William Alfahel of Mantua said, "Look at the huge number of participants; it's really amazing. They are so excited. They almost didn't sleep last night."

Several qualified instructors are teaching lessons, and the NHLPA donated equipment, including jerseys featuring Johnny and Matthew's numbers - 13 and 21.

Parents said the program opens doors for families.

"Some of these kids here probably can't afford ice hockey like us. It's a lot of money, so to get to this with all of these kids and to learn, it's great," said Chris Horner of West Deptford.

Nicole Slattery of Cherry Hill added, "Ice hockey is such a sport that can be so expensive for families. To give families the opportunity to get out there to be able to try it and to honor his boys is such a special thing."

Jane Gaudreau said she feels her sons' presence at the rink as their pictures hang along the wall. "I actually think they're here with us. I think they would be a part of this. They're probably loving every single minute of this."

Guy agreed. "They would laugh at me and say, ' Dad, you're nuts.' But I love hockey, and they would be here cheering me on, so I'm sure they're up there cheering me on."

The learn-to-skate portion of the program runs through December. The young athletes will begin learning to play hockey next year.

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