A Night of Honor and Triumph for the Carolina Hurricanes
On a memorable evening in Raleigh, the Carolina Hurricanes not only secured a decisive 4-1 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets but also witnessed one of their own receive a prestigious accolade. Rod Brind’Amour, the esteemed coach of the Hurricanes, was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, North Carolina’s most distinguished civilian honor, symbolizing his immense contribution to the state both on and off the ice.
Bestowed by Governor Roy Cooper, a fervent supporter of the Hurricanes, the award underscores Brind’Amour's impact on North Carolina. His journey with the Hurricanes has been noteworthy, transforming the team into a formidable force over his seven seasons as head coach. Prior to coaching, Brind’Amour spent a decade as a player with the franchise, leading them as captain to a Stanley Cup victory in 2006. Such achievements have established him as an integral figure in the team’s history and a beloved figure in the community.
Governor Cooper's admiration for Brind’Amour was evident as he addressed the team in the locker room after the game. “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,” Cooper remarked, highlighting Brind’Amour's humble nature and dedication to his players. “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.”
For Brind’Amour, the recognition was about more than just personal accolades. “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 stated, deflecting the spotlight onto his team and collaborators. Such a statement echoes the ethos that has seeped into the franchise, creating an environment where team triumph meets individual excellence.
Governor Cooper’s personal connections with sports figures in North Carolina are profound. Previously, he has conferred the Order of the Long Leaf Pine to Mike Krzyzewski, the legendary basketball coach, and plans to bestow the same honor on former basketball coach Roy Williams. The governor, approaching the end of his second term due to term limits, has skillfully tied his legacy with the cultural and sporting tapestries of the state. At 67, his passion for North Carolina’s sports scene remains undiminished, as evidenced by his engagement with the Hurricanes.
The evening was capped with a challenge and aspiration from the governor: “Coach, it's time to get that Stanley Cup this time.” It’s an echo of expectation, resonant with the fans’ and players’ shared dreams for another triumph that would cement Brind’Amour’s legacy even further.
As the season progresses, the Hurricanes continue to march forward, fortified by a collective ambition and helmed by a coach whose contributions have been rightfully acknowledged. With Brind’Amour at the helm, the team and its supporters remain hopeful that the echoes of past victories will soon resound with new triumphs.