Minnesota wilds Frédérick Gaudreau Honored with Tom Kurvers Humanitarian Award
Gaudreau Recognized for Leadership and Humanitarian Efforts
Minnesota Wild center Frédérick Gaudreau was awarded the Tom Kurvers Humanitarian Award on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, during a pre-game ceremony before the Wild’s matchup against the Anaheim Ducks.this prestigious award acknowledges Gaudreau’s extraordinary leadership both on and off the ice, and also his significant humanitarian contributions within the state of Minnesota.
The Tom Kurvers Humanitarian Award, established in 2021 after Kurvers’ death from lung cancer, recognizes a Wild player who embodies leadership, selflessness, and community involvement. Gaudreau’s dedication truly reflects these values.
Whether in organization the Minnesota Wild Whiskey and Wine event with his wife Kjersten,being an outstanding contributor and participating in the Hockey Without Limits camp or by collaborating with the Wild to offer tickets for the benefit of the DSAMN,Frédérick is always looking for means to support and include people with Trisomy 21.
Previous recipients of the award include Marc-André Fleury (2024) and Matt Dumba (2023), solidifying Gaudreau’s place among esteemed members of the Wild organization known for their commitment to giving back.
Inspired by Family: Gaudreau’s Commitment to Down Syndrome Awareness
gaudreau’s dedication to humanitarian work is deeply personal. He draws inspiration from his godson and nephew, Noah, who has Down syndrome.This connection fuels his active involvement with the Down Syndrome association of Minnesota (DSAMN).
Gaudreau and his wife, Kjersten, have been instrumental in organizing events such as the Minnesota Wild Whiskey and Wine event, raising funds and awareness for the DSAMN. he is also a key contributor to the Hockey Without Limits camp, an initiative started by former Wild player Matt Dumba to provide opportunities for children with disabilities to experience the joy of hockey.
The Hockey Without Limits camp, in particular, resonates with American values of inclusivity and opportunity. Programs like this provide avenues for children with disabilities to participate in sports, fostering a sense of belonging and promoting physical and mental well-being.
teammates’ Choice and Foundation Support
Adding to the significance of the award, Gaudreau’s selection for the Tom Kurvers Prize was persistent by a vote of his teammates, highlighting the respect and admiration he has earned within the Wild locker room.
In support of Gaudreau’s efforts, the Minnesota Wild Foundation will donate $5,000 to the DSAMN. This financial contribution will directly support the organization’s programs and services, benefiting individuals with Down syndrome and their families throughout Minnesota.
Gaudreau Nominated for king Clancy Trophy
Further recognition of his character and community involvement, the Wild have nominated Gaudreau for the King Clancy Memorial Trophy. This NHL-wide award mirrors the criteria of the Tom Kurvers Prize, honoring the player who best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice and has made a noteworthy humanitarian contribution to his community.
The King Clancy Memorial Trophy, awarded annually, is a testament to the NHL’s commitment to recognizing players who make a difference beyond the rink. Gaudreau’s nomination underscores his dedication to using his platform for positive change.
Gaudreau’s Performance on the Ice
Beyond his humanitarian work, Frédérick gaudreau, 31, has been a valuable contributor on the ice for the Wild. As of April 15, 2025, in 81 games this season, the center had 18 goals and 19 assists, totaling 37 points.
In his four seasons with the Wild, Gaudreau has played 306 games, accumulating 134 points. Prior to joining Minnesota as a free agent in the summer of 2021, he also played for the Nashville Predators and the Pittsburgh Penguins.
| Season | Team | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-2025 | Minnesota Wild | 81 | 18 | 19 | 37 |
| Career (with Wild) | Minnesota Wild | 306 | – | – | 134 |
Wild’s Playoff Push
Heading into their game against the Anaheim Ducks on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, the Wild had an opportunity to secure a playoff berth. Their qualification hinged on earning at least one point against the Ducks, coupled with favorable outcomes in other games around the league, including the St. Louis Blues versus the Utah hockey club and the Calgary Flames against the vegas Golden Knights.
If the Wild qualified for the playoffs, they were likely to face either the Vegas Golden Knights or the winnipeg Jets in the first round. This woudl mark a return to the playoffs for Minnesota, who missed the postseason the previous year.
While the Wild have consistently made the playoffs in recent years,with seven appearances in the last nine seasons,they have struggled to advance past the first round. Overcoming this hurdle will be a key objective for the team.
An Interview with Frédérick gaudreau: Reflecting on the Tom Kurvers Humanitarian Award
A Conversation with a Champion: Frédérick Gaudreau
Archyde News Editor, Alex Johnson, recently sat down with Minnesota Wild center Frédérick Gaudreau following his receipt of the Tom Kurvers Humanitarian Award.Their conversation touched on Gaudreau’s commitments, the impact of the award, and the importance of community involvement.
The Interview
Alex Johnson: Frédérick, congratulations on winning the Tom Kurvers Humanitarian Award! This is a significant achievement. How does it feel to be recognized for your humanitarian work within the Minnesota community?
Frédérick Gaudreau: Thank you, Alex. It’s an incredible honor.It’s truly humbling to be mentioned in the same breath as Tom Kurvers and past recipients. It makes all the work, the events and the time spent with DSAMN, feel even more worthwhile. I feel extremely proud
Alex johnson: Your dedication to the Down Syndrome Association of Minnesota (DSAMN) is deeply inspiring. What initially sparked your passion for this cause?
Frédérick Gaudreau: It’s deeply personal. My godson and nephew, Noah, has Down syndrome. Seeing the joy he brings to our family,and knowing his potential,really ignited my passion for supporting the DSAMN. They do so much good for families, and it’s been my pleasure working with Kjersten on the events, specially the Minnesota Wild Whiskey and Wine event.
Alex Johnson: The Hockey Without Limits camp, in collaboration with the Wild and inspired by your teammate Matt Dumba, is another impressive initiative.How important is it for you to offer these opportunities for children with disabilities?
Frédérick Gaudreau: Huge. Sport, especially hockey, should be accessible to everyone. Seeing the smiles on those kids’ faces as they learn to skate and play, it’s unparalleled. It’s about creating a sense of belonging and building confidence. It’s an honor to be part of it.
Alex Johnson: Your teammates clearly recognize your contribution, considering the decision to nominate you for the Tom Kurvers Award.What does that mean to you, to have their respect?
Frédérick Gaudreau: That makes this feel even more special, really. To have the respect of my teammates within the Minnesota wild association means the world. We spend a lot of time together, on and off the ice. It’s a privilege to play with such great people and to have their support and understanding.
Alex Johnson: The Minnesota Wild Foundation is also supporting your efforts by donating to the DSAMN. how will that contribution impact the organization?
Frédérick Gaudreau: The contribution from the Minnesota Wild Foundation will create a huge impact. It empowers the DSAMN, ensuring they can continue the great work they do around Minnesota, from programs to services. it’s very, very important. I am extremely proud of being associated with the team.
Alex Johnson: The NHL has nominated you for the King Clancy Memorial Trophy, which recognizes similar qualities. What does it mean to you to be nominated for such a prestigious award?
Frédérick Gaudreau: It’s a huge honor, and I’m very grateful to the NHL and the Wild for the recognition. It’s extremely critically important to me to be a role model on and off the rink, and the nomination is a testament to the impact you can make in the community by committing to help.
Alex Johnson: With the Wild hoping to secure a playoff spot, what message would you like to share with the fans as the regular season nears its end?
Frédérick Gaudreau: We really appreciate their continued support through all the seasons. We’re working hard to secure a playoff spot, and we hope to make them very proud. we’ll give it our all,both on and off the ice. We couldn’t do any of this without the fans!
Alex Johnson: Frédérick, thank you for your time and your dedication to the community. Congratulations again on this well-deserved award.
Frédérick Gaudreau: Thank you, Alex. It was my pleasure.
A Legacy of Giving: Gaudreau’s Impact
Frédérick Gaudreau’s humanitarian work is an inspiration to all. His commitment to the DSAMN, his involvement in the Hockey Without Limits camp and the Wild’s events demonstrates his dedication to making a difference.His recognition by the Minnesota Wild and the NHL is a testament to his unwavering commitment. What community projects inspire you? Let us know in the comments below!
