The Columbus Blue Jackets marked a significant milestone by celebrating their 25th anniversary with a special tribute to former players. On Saturday, the team honored alumni, including R.J. Umberger, Cam Atkinson, Derek Dorsett, and Pascal Leclaire, prior to their matchup against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio.
R.J. Umberger, a former All-American from Ohio State, expressed his enthusiasm about reconnecting with teammates and sharing the occasion with his family. During his six seasons with the Blue Jackets, Umberger played 461 games, scoring 123 goals and providing 131 assists. He ranks among the franchise’s all-time leaders, sitting sixth in goals, seventh in points, and fourth in power-play goals.
One memorable highlight for Umberger was scoring the first playoff goal in franchise history against the Detroit Red Wings on April 16, 2009. Reflecting on that achievement, he stated, “Fondest memory would probably be when we made the playoffs for the first time. I remember the excitement there and just seeing the crowd and the fans.” He also cherished the experience of winning the Blue Jackets’ first playoff game in the subsequent years.
After leaving Columbus, Umberger returned to Philadelphia for his final two NHL seasons. Yet, he continues to consider Columbus his home. Currently, he coaches youth hockey, including his son, and is involved with the Columbus Chill Hockey Club. While attending Blue Jackets games each season, Umberger has adapted to his new role as a fan. “It’s surreal at times,” he noted about being back at the arena. “You want to kind of watch and put yourself in that mind frame of what’s going on on the ice, but also try to just sit back, relax and enjoy it because that’s what it’s all about.”
The Blue Jackets have seen numerous coaching changes since Umberger’s playing days, yet he remains optimistic about the team’s future. “There’s a ton of young talent, so I think the future is bright,” he remarked. “These guys have the capability to go on a run with new leadership and new coaching. It’s just a fresh start and fresh energy, and the fan base will be behind them.”
As the Blue Jackets celebrate this quarter-century milestone, the organization emphasizes its commitment to honoring the past while looking forward to a promising future.
