Governor Honors Hockey Legend
On a remarkable evening for Carolina sports, Rod Brind'Amour, the venerable head coach of the Carolina Hurricanes, was bestowed with North Carolina’s highest civilian accolade, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. The honor was presented by Governor Roy Cooper, a long-standing advocate of the Hurricanes, amid an atmosphere charged with excitement following the team's 4-1 triumph over the Columbus Blue Jackets.
The accolade is a testament to Brind'Amour’s significant contributions both as a player and a coach for the franchise. His deep association with the Hurricanes spans over a decade as a player, during which he captained the team to its first Stanley Cup victory in 2006. Now, seven years into his tenure as head coach, Brind'Amour continues to cement his legacy. Governor Cooper, recognizing these accomplishments, also noted Brind'Amour's impact off the ice, highlighting his involvement in youth hockey and his broader influence on North Carolina sport. “What he has meant to North Carolina is extraordinary, both as a player, as a coach, as a parent, involvement in youth hockey,” Cooper stated.
A Culture of Winning
Despite the personal honor, Brind'Amour, true to form, redirected the spotlight onto his team, epitomizing the humility that has underpinned his illustrious career. “It's not about me. We've got such a good group. I was a part of a group of great people all along,” he remarked, reinforcing the collective ethos he nurtures within the Hurricanes' dressing room.
Governor Cooper, who is nearing the end of his second term in office, has seen firsthand the transformative effect of the Hurricanes on the state’s sporting landscape. His remarks illuminated the broader economic and cultural contributions of the team under Brind'Amour’s stewardship: “When you think about all of the jobs the Carolina Hurricanes have brought to North Carolina and their success... This guy has created a culture of winning.”
Shared Aspirations for Glory
The symbolic significance of the evening was further cemented by Governor Cooper's participation in the team's pre-game rituals. Before what would become a resounding victory, Cooper energized the locker room by reading out the Hurricanes' starting lineup, a gesture underscoring his devotion to the franchise.
As the proceedings culminated, Governor Cooper shared a rallying cry with both Brind'Amour and the team: “Coach, it's time to get that Stanley Cup this time.” The remark underscores a shared aspiration for another championship run and reflects the high expectations that accompany Brind'Amour’s structured leadership and the team's upward trajectory.
An Enduring Legacy
The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is just one of the ways Governor Cooper has recognized notable contributions to the state. Previous honorees include influential figures in sports such as Mike Krzyzewski, and forthcoming accolades are set for other sports luminaries like Roy Williams. At 67, Governor Cooper’s legacy is partially intertwined with these acknowledgments of excellence across disciplines.
Rod Brind'Amour’s recognition with this prestigious honor not only celebrates his past achievements but also signals the state’s enduring appreciation for his contributions to both the sport and the community. As the Hurricanes continue their pursuit of success under his guidance, the blend of individual accolades and team aspirations paints a hopeful picture for North Carolina’s continued relevance on the national hockey stage.