DUBUQUE, Iowa — The Dubuque Fighting Saints honored the late NHL player Johnny Gaudreau by retiring his No. 8 jersey during an emotional tribute before their game against Sioux City on Saturday night.

Tragically, Gaudreau and his brother Matthew lost their lives in a biking accident on August 29 when they were hit by an SUV on a rural road in New Jersey, near their hometown of Carneys Point. The driver accused of causing their deaths has pleaded not guilty after rejecting a plea deal that would have resulted in a 35-year prison sentence.

In his brief yet impactful career in the junior league, Johnny Gaudreau was named the USHL’s rookie of the year for the 2010-11 season while playing for the Fighting Saints, contributing to the team’s Clark Cup championship victory. He later became a minority owner of the franchise in 2018.

During the ceremony, USHL Commissioner Glenn Hefferan announced the establishment of the Gaudreau Award, which will be presented to the player who best reflects the spirit and legacy of Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau. Matthew also played in the USHL, representing the Omaha Lancers.

The Fighting Saints went on to secure a 4-3 victory in overtime during the game, capping off a night filled with heartfelt memories and tributes to the Gaudreau brothers.