The Order of the Long Leaf Pine for Brind'Amour
Carolina Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind'Amour has added another accolade to his illustrious career, receiving the prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine from North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper. This high civilian honor reflects Brind'Amour's exceptional contributions to the state, both on the ice and off. Known for his humble nature and team-oriented mentality, Brind'Amour's significant impact was eloquently expressed by Governor Cooper, who said, “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 and a Celebration
Before the Hurricanes clinched a resounding 4-1 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets, Governor Cooper, a staunch supporter of the team, took a moment to acknowledge Brind'Amour's illustrious career. In a special gesture, he read the starting lineup to the players, cementing his role as the state’s enthusiastic cheerleader. This intimate moment before the game was emblematic of the camaraderie and mutual respect woven into the fabric of North Carolina’s hockey culture.
Brind'Amour, now in his seventh season at the helm of the Hurricanes, is renowned not just for his strategic acumen but for the leadership qualities that his peers and players admire. Reflecting on the honor, Brind'Amour downplayed his role, emphasizing the collective spirit that has defined his 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 said.
Legacy and Leadership
Brind'Amour's roots with the Hurricanes trace back over a decade, having played with the franchise long before he began to mold its current roster. As captain, he spearheaded the team to a Stanley Cup victory in 2006— a crowning achievement that remains etched in the franchise’s history. His ongoing leadership continues to inspire players and staff, fostering a culture that Governor Cooper himself acknowledged as a “culture of winning.”
The governor’s connection to the Hurricanes is both personal and public. He has frequently honored other sports legends within the state, such as conferring the Order of the Long Leaf Pine to famed personalities like Mike Krzyzewski, with plans to soon bestow the honor on Roy Williams as well. As Cooper approaches the end of his second term due to term limits, his appreciation for sports and the communities they galvanize remains steadfast. It was only fitting that Cooper seized the chance to honor Brind'Amour, whose life and work align with the values of discipline, humility, and community.
A Call to Action
In an inspiring nudge towards future victories, Governor Cooper shared some motivational words with Brind'Amour, emphasizing, “Coach, it's time to get that Stanley Cup this time.” Perhaps this sentiment resonates deeper than a mere aspiration; it mirrors the anticipation and potential that this Hurricanes team exudes under Brind'Amour's stewardship. The honor not only celebrates past achievements but also sets the stage for future triumphs in North Carolina’s ever-burgeoning hockey narrative.