Brind'Amour Honored with Prestigious Award Before Hurricanes' Win
In a night filled with accolades and achievement, Rod Brind'Amour, head coach of the Carolina Hurricanes, was bestowed the Order of the Long Leaf Pine by North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper. This prestigious honor, recognized as the highest civilian award in the state, was presented to Brind'Amour during an emotional ceremony emphasizing his monumental contributions both on and off the ice.
Recognizing Excellence On and Off the Ice
Governor Cooper, a long-time supporter of the Carolina Hurricanes, shared heartfelt sentiments about Brind'Amour's influence. "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," Cooper enthused, underscoring Brind'Amour's multifaceted impact. This culture of success was vividly on display as the Hurricanes secured a decisive 4-1 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets later that evening.
Leadership Rooted in Team Spirit
Brind'Amour, currently in his seventh season as the team's head coach, remains steadfast in his team-first philosophy. "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 stated, reflecting his deep-rooted belief in collective effort over individual accolades. This ethos has been a cornerstone of his leadership, both as a player—having captained the Hurricanes to their Stanley Cup victory in 2006—and now as a coach guiding a new generation of players.
A Legacy of Commitment
The night was also a poignant moment for Governor Cooper, who recounted his experience of addressing the team and acknowledging Brind'Amour’s reluctance to embrace personal accolades. "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 recalled, highlighting Brind'Amour’s humility and team-oriented mindset.
Governor Cooper, aged 67, is nearing the end of his second term as governor, restricted by term limits. Throughout his tenure, Cooper has been an ardent supporter of sports in North Carolina, having previously honored sports figures such as Mike Krzyzewski and soon to include Roy Williams. His involvement and support translate beyond the political realm, as evidenced by his engaging presence with the Hurricanes, reading the starting lineup before the game—a gesture of irreproachable fandom.
Looking Towards a Promising Future
The governor’s words resonate with anticipation as he closed with a rallying cry for further success. "Coach, it's time to get that Stanley Cup this time," Cooper encouraged, echoing the sentiments of many Hurricanes devotees who yearn for another championship under Brind'Amour’s stewardship.
The evening stands as a testament to Rod Brind'Amour's enduring impact, not just as a former player but as a visionary leader who has rejuvenated the Hurricanes' presence in the NHL. The award of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine is a fitting tribute to a man whose commitment to his team and state continues to inspire excellence in North Carolina's sporting community.