Brind'Amour Honored as Hurricanes Triumph
On a night where hockey pride and civic honor intertwined, Coach Rod Brind'Amour of the Carolina Hurricanes was awarded North Carolina's most prestigious civilian accolade, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. The honor was bestowed by Governor Roy Cooper, a devoted fan of the team.
A Night of Triumph
Not only did the evening highlight Brind'Amour's monumental contribution to the state’s sport, but it also saw the Hurricanes clinch a commanding 4-1 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets. Amidst the celebrations of the win, Governor Cooper stepped into the locker room to share the spotlight on Brind'Amour’s achievements, both on and off the ice.
“I went into the locker room after the game and told the players that this guy wouldn't want me to do what I was about to do because this guy is all about his players and all about team,” remarked Governor Cooper, underscoring Brind'Amour’s relentless focus on team solidarity over personal accolades.
Legacy of Leadership
Currently in his seventh season as head coach, Rod Brind'Amour is no stranger to success and leadership. His connection with the Hurricanes runs deep, having played a decade with the franchise and famously leading them as captain to their Stanley Cup victory in 2006. Through his transition from player to coach, he has been instrumental in fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
Governor Cooper praised Brind'Amour's influence, saying, “What he has meant to North Carolina is extraordinary, both as a player, as a coach, as a parent, involvement in youth hockey. 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.”
A Governor’s Farewell Tour
As Governor Cooper nears the end of his second term due to term limits, he continues to leave his mark by honoring individuals that have significantly impacted the state. Brind'Amour joins an esteemed list of honorees, including legendary basketball coaches Mike Krzyzewski and soon Roy Williams, all recipients of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. At 67, Cooper remains a passionate advocate for North Carolina sports, regularly saluting notable figures who elevate the state's profile on a national stage.
Focus on Team and the Future
In receipt of such a distinguished accolade, Brind'Amour remains humble and resolute, staying true to his values of teamwork and group effort. “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, shifting the attention back to the ensemble that defines the Hurricanes' spirit.
Looking forward, Governor Cooper offered a message of encouragement to Brind'Amour, challenging him to reach for another milestone. “Coach, it's time to get that Stanley Cup this time,” Cooper stated, a nod to both past glory and future aspirations under Brind'Amour’s steady leadership.
As the Hurricanes continue their season under Brind'Amour's stewardship, the convergence of state pride and athletic prowess marks a vibrant chapter in North Carolina’s sports history. This evening was not merely about a game won, but celebrated the enduring impact of a leader who continues to inspire on and off the rink.