Celebration and Recognition in Raleigh
Saturday night's matchup between the Carolina Hurricanes and the Columbus Blue Jackets offered more than a spirited contest on the ice. It became a celebration of both sporting success and community impact when Coach Rod Brind'Amour, the revered leader of the Hurricanes, was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine—North Carolina’s highest civilian honor—by Governor Roy Cooper.
A Spectacular Ceremony
Before the Hurricanes accomplished a convincing 4-1 victory over the Blue Jackets, the evening took on a deeper significance. In the locker room, Coach Brind'Amour's contributions to the state, beyond just his tactical acumen in hockey, were warmly acknowledged. Governor Cooper, a steadfast supporter of the team, took to address the players with heartfelt words and an official commendation for Brind'Amour.
Governor Cooper shared, “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.” His words underscored Brind'Amour's ethos of team-first leadership.
A Legacy of Leadership
Brind'Amour, now in his seventh year as head coach, has a storied history with the Hurricanes, dating back to when he captained the team to their first Stanley Cup victory in 2006. His decade-long tenure as a player has left an indelible mark on the franchise. As both player and coach, his influence stretches beyond the rink, deeply embedding itself into the community fabric in North Carolina through youth hockey and other initiatives.
Governor Cooper reflected on this broader impact, saying, “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 Culture of Success
While the spotlight shone brightly on Brind'Amour, the coach deflected the attention, insisting it was a collective effort. “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 commented, demonstrating the humility and team spirit he’s known for fostering among the Hurricanes.
Governor’s Final Lap
This ceremony also carried a nostalgic note, as Governor Cooper is nearing the end of his second term, limited by law from seeking another. At 67, it's evident he has left an indelible mark on the state's sports culture, having previously honored legends like Mike Krzyzewski and planning to confer the same distinction soon to Roy Williams.
Governor Cooper didn't miss the opportunity to inject a hopeful challenge for the future, closing his tribute with a definitive call to action for Brind'Amour: “Coach, it's time to get that Stanley Cup this time.”
As the echoes of the Governor’s words subsided and the Hurricanes skated proudly off ice with a solid victory, the sentiment permeating the air of Raleigh that night was clear. Brind'Amour is not just a coach; he is a monument to community, teamwork, and achievement in North Carolina, urging the Hurricanes—and indeed the state's sports community—toward excellence on and off the ice.