The Columbus Blue Jackets gave their fans an extra special moment Saturday night, and it had nothing to do with what happened on the ice.
During their crucial matchup against the Chicago Blackhawks, the packed house at Nationwide Arena turned their attention to one very tiny spectator – Johnny Gaudreau Jr., who was celebrating his first birthday.
The Blue Jackets have been this season’s feel-good story in the NHL, fighting their way into playoff contention when nobody gave them a chance.
But on this night, the 18,500 fans who filled every seat had something even more heartwarming to cheer about. They broke into a arena-wide rendition of “Happy Birthday” for young Johnny Jr., whose late father was a beloved figure in Columbus hockey.
It was the kind of moment that reminds us sports are about more than just wins and losses.
The Gaudreau family was there as special guests, watching from the stands as the Blue Jackets continued their unexpected push toward a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.
For a team that’s already given their fans plenty to celebrate this season, this might have been the sweetest moment yet.
