Brind'Amour Honored by Governor Cooper as Hurricanes Triumph
In a night that showcased both ceremony and sport, the Carolina Hurricanes celebrated a 4-1 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets, while their head coach, Rod Brind'Amour, received North Carolina's highest civilian honor, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, from Governor Roy Cooper. The accolade recognized Brind'Amour's achievements and contributions to the state, both on and off the ice. Gov. Cooper, a stalwart supporter of the Hurricanes, personally delivered the news in a rather heartfelt manner.
"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," said Cooper, reflecting the deep respect Brind'Amour has earned from those around him. As the Hurricanes continue to assert themselves in the league, their success appears intertwined with Brind'Amour's leadership—a fact not lost on the governor. "What he has meant to North Carolina is extraordinary, both as a player, as a coach, as a parent, [and] involvement in youth hockey," Cooper added. "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."
A Cultural Architect
Rod Brind'Amour's journey with the Carolina Hurricanes is storied. Entering his seventh season as head coach, he has long been a pivotal part of the franchise's heartbeat since his days wearing the team jersey. Spending a decade as a player, Brind'Amour's most celebrated achievement came in 2006 when he captained the Hurricanes to their first Stanley Cup victory. This victory laid the foundation for a legacy that the team continues to build upon under his watchful eye as coach.
The recognition from Governor Cooper, therefore, has a poetic resonance. Cooper himself is nearing the end of his second term due to term limits, having long borne witness to Brind'Amour's influence. The governor has previously conferred the same honor upon other local sports figures, such as the legendary basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski, and will soon honor another basketball notable, Roy Williams.
Focus on Team Success
The modesty with which Brind'Amour accepts such accolades speaks volumes to his character and leadership style. "It's not about me. We've got such a good group. I was a part of a group of great people all along," said Brind'Amour, deflecting personal praise in favor of acknowledging the collective effort. It’s this insistence on teamwork over individual triumph that has engendered such respect within the Hurricanes organization and the broader sports community.
One Eye on the Prize
As for Governor Cooper's playful challenge to Brind'Amour, the sentiment was clear: "Coach, it's time to get that Stanley Cup this time." This year’s Hurricanes team, buoyed by their recent victory and Brind'Amour's directive, will no doubt take this endorsement to heart. With aspirations firmly set on capturing another championship, the pursuit of the Stanley Cup remains at the forefront of the team’s objectives.
With valuable support on and off the ice, the Hurricanes' campaign in the league continues strong. As they tackle each challenge that comes their way, they do so with Brind'Amour's influence woven throughout their plays—an influence officially sealed by the state's highest civilian honor.
Ultimately, the evening epitomized the synergistic relationship between North Carolina's beloved hockey team and those who champion their narrative. It was a poignant reminder of a storied past and an exciting glimpse into the future for both Brind'Amour and his steadfast Hurricanes.