Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Erik Gudbranson recently enjoyed a special moment with his three-year-old son, Benny, on the ice. Erik’s wife Sarah Gudbranson shared photos and a video of the heartwarming family time. In the pictures, Benny is dressed in full hockey gear, including a black CCM jersey and helmet, looking ready to play.
Sarah was also on the ice and posed happily with Benny for one of the photos. In one clip, Erik was seen helping Benny step on the ice, casually dressed in a hoodie and skates, holding his hockey gear.
Erik guided Benny as he took one of his first lessons in hockey. It was a proud "hockey dad" moment for Erik as he helped his son learn skating basics. Benny held a small hockey stick and looked confident in his gear, seemingly ready to follow in his dad’s footsteps.
Erik Gudbranson’s younger daughter, Zoey Isabelle, who was born on August 25, 2022, was not seen skating. However, she was featured in Sarah's stories with her brother Benny.
The photos and video captured Gudbranson's special family moment. It was a day filled with smiles, skating, and shared memories.
Erik is currently recovering from shoulder surgery after an October injury and has only played three games this season. He reportedly joined injured Columbus Blue Jackets teammates at OhioHealth Ice Haus last week for a light skate as part of his recovery process.
Erik Gudbranson's son Benny's "lunch date" with mom Sarah
This is not the first time Benny has stepped on the ice. Earlier this week, Sarah shared photos in which Benny was seen skating and humorously posted about a “lunch date” with her son. One photo featured Benny smiling while another showed him skating in a hockey helmet and gloves during their “Benny+Mama date day.”
Sarah and Erik met when she was in dental school. They got engaged in 2018 and married in 2019. The couple has been blessed with two children, both in their preschool age.
Sarah also posted a heartwarming message on social media for Erik’s 33rd birthday.
"Happy birthday babe ❤️ Always my favourite day celebrating you ***especially on a snow day/taco Tuesday. Te quiero mucho 😘🌮"
Meredith Gaudreau, the wife of Erik’s late teammate Johnny Gaudreau, surprised him with iced coffee and desserts. Sarah thanked Meredith, writing,
"Come back to us already!!!”
Meredith called Erik her “forever best friend” in a birthday message. Erik and Johnny Gaudreau were close friends.