Boston College Eagles Honor Fallen Legends: A Season Dedicated to Johnny Gaudreau, Matthew Gaudreau, and Tony Voce

A Season of Remembrance in Chestnut Hill

In the hallowed halls of Boston College’s hockey program, three names echo through the locker room, the practice rink, and the hearts of every player who dons the Eagles’ jersey: Tony Voce, Johnny Gaudreau, and Matthew Gaudreau. This season, the top-ranked Eagles have carried the weight of tragedy—and transformed it into inspiration.

A Brotherhood Cut Short

• Tony Voce, the two-time Boston College MVP (2002, 2004), passed away at age 43 from a sudden heart attack in July 2024.
• Just weeks later, Johnny Gaudreau (NHL All-Star, 2014 Hobey Baker winner) and his younger brother Matthew Gaudreau (former BC assistant coach) were killed by an allegedly intoxicated driver while cycling in New Jersey. Their deaths sent shockwaves through the hockey world.

"Some things are just unexplainable," said Jerry York, the legendary BC coach who mentored all three. "They left a mark here that can’t be erased."

The Legacy Lives On

• Jersey Patches & Tributes: Every Eagles player wears a black patch with the initials TV, JG, and MG. Johnny’s 2012 NCAA Championship-winning goal—a dazzling solo effort against Ferris State—is replayed daily in the team facility.
• Matthew’s Grit: Despite being one of college hockey’s smallest players (5’9", 110 lbs as a freshman), Matthew became BC’s leading scorer in 2015–16. "His toughness was off the charts," York recalled.
• Team USA Homage: At the 2025 World Juniors, the Eagles hung Johnny’s Team USA jersey in their locker room during their gold-medal run.

A Championship Mission

With a No. 1 national ranking, BC opens its Frozen Four quest against Bentley on March 28. For players like defenseman Eamon Powell, the season transcends trophies:

"Once you put that jersey on, you never take it off. We’re playing for them—and that’s what makes this team different."

How to Watch

• NCAA Tournament: Stream all games on ESPN+
• Documentary: "Game On: Journey to the NCAA Championship" captures BC’s emotional season.