Rod Brind'Amour Honored Ahead of Hurricanes' Victory Over Blue Jackets
In a night of both celebration and triumph, the Carolina Hurricanes not only skated to a 4-1 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets but also celebrated head coach Rod Brind'Amour, who received North Carolina's highest civilian honor, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. The accolade was presented by Governor Roy Cooper, a passionate supporter of the Hurricanes ever since Brind'Amour took the helm seven seasons ago. This moment underscored Brind'Amour’s significant contributions not only to the team but also to the broader North Carolina community.
A Storied Career
Brind'Amour's legacy with the Hurricanes is one that spans decades. Before he took on coaching duties, he was a formidable presence on the ice, spending ten years as a player with the franchise. As the captain, he led the Hurricanes to their historic Stanley Cup victory in 2006. It is no wonder that his transformational impact both as a player and as a coach has been recognized with such a distinguished award.
Governor Cooper, who will soon complete his second term in office, took the opportunity to praise Brind'Amour, highlighting his remarkable influence 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," Cooper said, adding, "This guy has created a culture of winning."
A Governor's Tribute
The ceremony inside the locker room was more than just a routine recognition. For Governor Cooper, it was a chance to personally thank Brind'Amour for his dedication and to inspire the team before the game. Cooper even took on the role of announcer, reading out the starting lineup to the Hurricanes. “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,” he shared. It's clear that for Brind'Amour, the honor was not just about personal achievement but reflected the collective effort of the Hurricanes under his leadership.
“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 modestly stated, reinforcing the humility and team-centric philosophy that epitomizes his tenure with the Hurricanes.
Governor Cooper's Legacy
As Governor Cooper approaches the end of his second term, he continues to recognize tenacity and excellence in North Carolina sports. The governor has previously awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine to celebrated figures like Mike Krzyzewski and plans to honor Roy Williams soon. This dedication to celebrating sporting figures speaks volumes about Cooper's affection for the community and its heroes.
At 67, Cooper remains an energetic and influential figure, using his platform to promote and support the state’s sporting community fervently. His actions continue to endear him to fans and players alike, fostering a supportive environment for North Carolina sports.
Looking Forward
Meanwhile, the Hurricanes, buoyed by the night's events, went on to deliver an impressive performance against the Blue Jackets. The team, inspired by their coach and the governor's presence, demonstrated why they are a force to reckon with in the league. Governor Cooper's parting words to Brind'Amour resonated with hope for future successes: “Coach, it’s time to get that Stanley Cup this time.”
As the season progresses, the Hurricanes will aim to build on the momentum of both their recent win and the powerful support structure exemplified by figures like Brind'Amour and Governor Cooper. With their eyes set on another Stanley Cup, the Hurricanes are in a prime position to chase glory, driven by a culture of unity and determination cultivated over years of dedication.