The Coach and His Legacy: Rod Brind'Amour Honored with North Carolina's Highest Award
It was a night to remember for Rod Brind'Amour and the Carolina Hurricanes. The evening's highlight wasn't just their 4-1 victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets. It was a moment of recognition for one of hockey's most revered figures in North Carolina, as Coach Rod Brind'Amour received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the state's highest civilian honor, presented by Governor Roy Cooper.
In what was both a surprise and a moment of reflection, Governor Cooper entered the Hurricanes' locker room after the game. “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 remarked. This acknowledgment speaks volumes about the man behind the bench, whose career is as storied off the ice as it is on. Brind'Amour, in response to receiving the accolade, remained characteristically modest. “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 said.
Building a Legacy
Brind'Amour's connection to North Carolina is profound and multifaceted. Known for his staunch dedication and leadership, he spent a decade as a player with the Hurricanes, famously captaining the team to its first Stanley Cup victory in 2006. Transitioning to coaching, he's now in his seventh season as the head coach. His impact on the team and the community has been substantial, fostering a winning culture that resonates beyond the confines of the rink.
Governor Cooper, a long-time supporter of the Hurricanes, didn't miss an opportunity to emphasize the positive influence Brind'Amour has had on the sport and the region. “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.” These words underscore the profound effect Brind'Amour has had on both the sport at large and youth hockey in the state.
Governor's Lasting Support
Governor Cooper, approaching the end of his second term, has been actively involved in boosting the profile of sports in North Carolina. Along with Brind'Amour, he has also conferred the Order of the Long Leaf Pine to legendary basketball coaches Mike Krzyzewski and will soon honor Roy Williams, demonstrating his commitment to celebrating those who have made significant contributions to the state’s sports culture.
Cooper's personal fondness for the Hurricanes has become evident through these actions, culminating in his unique involvement with the team. Before the match against the Blue Jackets, Cooper even had the honor of reading the starting lineup, energizing the players and fans alike.
Looking Toward the Future
As the Hurricanes continue their season, all eyes are once again on Brind'Amour and his squad. Governor Cooper's parting message to the coach carried weighty aspirations: “Coach, it's time to get that Stanley Cup this time.” It's both a challenge and a testament to the belief Cooper, and indeed the state, has in Brind'Amour's leadership capabilities. As the 67-year-old governor prepares to leave office due to term limits, his legacy will include this deep-rooted support for the state’s sports teams and its iconic figures.
For Rod Brind'Amour, the recognition stands not just as a testament to his career achievements but as a beacon of the enduring spirit of teamwork and community he has nurtured and exemplified throughout his time with the Hurricanes. Whether on the ice or off it, Brind'Amour's influence is undeniable, and with the season in full swing, his next chapters appear as promising as his past triumphs.