COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- A Columbus Blue Jackets center has won one of the most prestigious NHL awards and received the trophy during an emotional surprise visit from Meredith Gaudreau.

Sean Monahan, 30, was named the winner of this season's Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, which is given to the NHL player that “best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey.” The first-year Blue Jackets player found out he won when Meredith Gaudreau, the wife of the late Johnny Gaudreau, came over to his house in Toronto to deliver the trophy.

He specifically came to play for Columbus this season to be with his friend Johnny, who played with Monahan in Calgary for nine seasons.

"Sean stood by my side for every tribute, every walkout," Meredith Gaudreau said. "I d

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