Brind'Amour Honored with Prestigious Award After Hurricanes Triumph
It was an evening of celebration both on and off the ice for the Carolina Hurricanes. As the final buzzer rang, securing a convincing 4-1 victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets, the triumph was matched by an equally notable moment away from the boards. Head Coach Rod Brind'Amour, a cornerstone of the Hurricanes family, was bestowed the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, North Carolina’s highest civilian honor, by Governor Roy Cooper. This token of appreciation is not just for his formidable contributions to hockey but also to the state of North Carolina.
A Salute to Leadership
Rod Brind'Amour’s journey with the Hurricanes has been a tale written in dedication and success. Having spent a significant decade as a player with the franchise, his captainship was integral to leading the team to a Stanley Cup victory in 2006. As he now stands in his seventh season as the head coach, Brind'Amour's influence continues to echo through each stride taken by his players on the ice.
Governor Roy Cooper, a long-time supporter of the Hurricanes, acknowledged Brind'Amour's indelible impact on the team and the broader North Carolina community. "What he has meant to North Carolina is extraordinary, both as a player, as a coach, as a parent, involvement in youth hockey," Cooper stated. Referencing the cultural and economic impacts of the Hurricanes, he 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 Coach’s Humble Reflection
The presence of Cooper in the locker room was more than ceremonial. Before the game, he personally delivered the starting lineup to the team, a gesture highlighting his rapport with the players and staff. The governor recounted a moment post-victory where he spoke to the team, emphasizing Brind'Amour's humility and team-oriented mindset: “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.”
Brind'Amour's response, in typical fashion, turned the spotlight back to his team, embodying the very essence of the accolade he received. “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 warmly remarked, reflecting on the cohesive spirit he has fostered over the years.
Governor Cooper’s Support
As Governor Cooper approaches the end of his second term, restricted by term limits, he continues to leave a mark by honoring key figures contributing to the state's culture and community. Having previously conferred the Order of the Long Leaf Pine to esteemed figures like Mike Krzyzewski and with plans to honor Roy Williams, Cooper's recognition of Brind'Amour is a testament to the coach's enduring legacy.
In perhaps the most poignant seal of approval, Governor Cooper charged Brind'Amour with yet another mission. “Coach, it's time to get that Stanley Cup this time,” he urged, encapsulating the high expectations and unwavering support that surrounds the Hurricanes under Brind'Amour's leadership.
At 67, Roy Cooper's enthusiasm for the Hurricanes and for leaders like Brind'Amour remains palpable. His participation is a reminder of the tight-knit bond between the team and the community it represents. For Brind'Amour, the evening’s events were an affirmation of his longstanding commitment to the team and the sport, with much to look forward to as the season progresses.