Brind’Amour Honored as Hurricanes Secure Victory
The North Carolina sports community experienced a resonant moment recently as Coach Rod Brind'Amour was distinguished with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine—North Carolina’s highest civilian honor. Governor Roy Cooper presented the prestigious award to the Carolina Hurricanes’ esteemed coach, underscoring Brind'Amour's substantial impact on the state both on and off the ice.
A Leader On and Off the Ice
Having spent a decade as a player with the Carolina Hurricanes, Brind'Amour’s legacy is deeply rooted in North Carolina’s hockey history. As the team captain, he led the Hurricanes to a glorious Stanley Cup victory in 2006, forever etching his name in the franchise's annals. Now in his seventh season at the helm as head coach, Brind'Amour’s influence continues to resonate throughout the team and the broader community.
Governor Cooper, a longtime Hurricanes supporter, lauded Brind'Amour not just for his on-ice achievements, but for his holistic contributions to North Carolina. Cooper emphasized, “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 Victory for the Hurricanes
The ceremony coincided with a triumphant 4-1 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets, highlighting a night to remember for Brind'Amour and the Hurricanes. Prior to the game, Governor Cooper read the starting lineup to the team, adding a touch of grandeur to the proceedings. Post-game, Cooper expressed his emotions to the team, stating, “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.”
Brind'Amour himself remained characteristically humble amid the accolades, focusing instead on the collective 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,” said the coach, reflecting his ethos of teamwork and unity that has been instrumental in cultivating the Hurricanes' recent successes.
A Generous Gesture by Governor Cooper
Governor Cooper, who is nearing the end of his second term owing to term limits, has shown a penchant for recognizing notable sporting figures in the state. Having previously honored other illustrious coaches such as Mike Krzyzewski, Cooper plans to extend this honor to Roy Williams shortly, further cementing his engagement with the state’s sporting excellence. At 67, Cooper remains a visible and vocal supporter of North Carolina athletics, infusing events like these with personal passion and a shared sense of state pride.
Amidst the celebration, Cooper left the team a hopeful message for the future. Urging Brind'Amour towards another formidable season, he remarked, “Coach, it's time to get that Stanley Cup this time.” The governor's words echo the aspirations of the entire community, who look forward to witnessing Brind'Amour guide the Hurricanes to further victories.
As the Hurricanes march forward into the season, the recognition of Rod Brind'Amour stands as a testimony to his enduring impact—a blend of integrity, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to the sport that has brought him and his team both accolades and affection from their home state.