Governor Honors Coach Brind'Amour with Prestigious Award
On a memorable night for Carolina’s loyal hockey fans, Coach Rod Brind'Amour was honored with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, North Carolina’s highest civilian commendation. Bestowed by Governor Roy Cooper, this accolade acknowledges Brind'Amour's significant contributions to the state over the decades both as a player and a coach.
Legacy of Excellence
Rod Brind'Amour, a stalwart of the Carolina Hurricanes franchise, is currently in his seventh season as their head coach. His journey with the team began long before his coaching endeavor; he spent a decade as a formidable player, even leading the Hurricanes to a historic Stanley Cup victory in 2006 as their captain. Brind’Amour's deep-rooted connection to the franchise and its fans has etched him as a revered figure in North Carolina’s sports tapestry.
Governor Cooper, a long-time supporter of the Hurricanes, had the honor of reading the starting lineup to the team before the game. After the Hurricanes clinched a 4-1 victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Cooper recounted a poignant moment in the locker room. “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,” Governor Cooper said, recognizing Brind'Amour's team-first ethos.
A Governor's Tribute
The respect between the 67-year-old governor and the beloved coach extends beyond the ice. Governor Cooper's words captured Brind'Amour's impact on the state. “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.”
This sentiment was further underscored by Brind'Amour’s humility in receiving the honor. “It's not about me. We've got such a good group. I was a part of a group of great people all along,” Brind'Amour stressed, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that defines his leadership style.
A Governor's Legacy
As Governor Cooper nears the conclusion of his second term in office due to term limits, he continues to cement his legacy by recognizing the luminaries who have shaped North Carolina’s cultural and sports landscape. Alongside his tribute to Brind'Amour, Cooper has previously conferred the Order of the Long Leaf Pine to other sports titans like Mike Krzyzewski and plans to soon honor Roy Williams.
Looking Forward
With the Hurricanes off to a solid start this season, Governor Cooper’s words of encouragement to Brind'Amour continue to resonate: “Coach, it's time to get that Stanley Cup this time.” His confidence reflects the hopes of countless fans who are eager to witness another championship run under Brind'Amour’s stewardship. The night served as a glowing reminder of what one man’s dedication can achieve, not just on the ice, but in inspiring a community and a state.
As Rod Brind'Amour was celebrated with North Carolina’s highest civilian honor, the ceremony marked more than just an acknowledgment of his remarkable sports career—it underscored the powerful synergy between sports, leadership, and community spirit, as embodied by both Brind'Amour and Governor Cooper.