The Order of the Long Leaf Pine Meets Hockey
It was a night to remember for Rod Brind'Amour and the Carolina Hurricanes. In a special ceremony that blended honor with anticipation for another promising hockey season, North Carolina's highest civilian distinction, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, was awarded to Hurricanes' head coach Rod Brind'Amour by Governor Roy Cooper. Known for his humility, Brind'Amour added one more feather to his already illustrious cap as a hockey player and coach, as he accepted the award right before his team claimed a 4-1 victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Governor Cooper, who has long been an ardent supporter of the Hurricanes, demonstrated his commitment to the sport by personally announcing the starting lineup in the locker room before their recent triumph. Yet, his real tribute to Brind'Amour came after the game with a ceremony that caught everyone’s attention. “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 noted, highlighting Brind'Amour’s characteristic modesty and team-first ethos.
A Career Anchored in Carolina
Brind'Amour’s journey with the Hurricanes is storied and deeply intertwined with his own professional growth. Having spent ten years as a player for the franchise, he captained the team to their first and only Stanley Cup victory in 2006. Now in his seventh season as head coach, his influence and inspirational leadership continue to resonate across the organization and the sport. Governor Cooper praised his multifaceted contributions, stating, “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."
The Legacy Continues
Governor Cooper, approaching the end of his second term, is no stranger to championing local sports figures, having previously honored celebrated basketball coaches Mike Krzyzewski and soon-to-be-honored Roy Williams. Recognizing Brind'Amour was not merely a nod to his past accomplishments but also a reflection of his ongoing impact within the state and the sport itself.
Despite the accolades, Brind'Amour remains characteristically grounded. “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, redirecting the spotlight back onto his team. His leadership style, grounded in humility and teamwork, is what has made the Hurricanes a formidable force in the NHL and a source of state pride.
Future Aspirations
As the season progresses, the Hurricanes are well-positioned for another run at the Stanley Cup, a feat their coach knows well. Governor Cooper, reflecting the hope of many fans, laid down a challenge with a touch of humor, “Coach, it's time to get that Stanley Cup this time.”
As Rod Brind'Amour accepts the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, his career and contributions cast a long and inspiring shadow across North Carolina. The state's hockey community—and indeed the broader world of sports—will watch with eager anticipation to see if the foundation laid by this remarkable player-turned-coach will lead the Hurricanes to yet another glorious chapter. The honor was not just about celebrating Brind'Amour's past contributions; it was a testament to the ongoing story of excellence and leadership still being written in Carolina's hockey history.