The Order of the Long Leaf Pine: A Distinguished Honor for a Distinguished Coach
Amidst the echoing chants of hockey enthusiasts, Governor Roy Cooper graced the locker room of the Carolina Hurricanes with a meaningful tribute. Rod Brind'Amour, the venerated head coach, was bestowed with North Carolina’s prestigious Order of the Long Leaf Pine, an honor that speaks volumes of his contributions to both the sport and the state. A transformative figure in the game, Brind'Amour received this accolade following the Hurricanes' resounding 4-1 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets.
The moment was poignant, filled with admiration from both the players and the community he has served tirelessly. Governor Cooper, not merely a political figure in this narrative, but a dedicated supporter of the Hurricanes, has long celebrated the team’s triumphs and tribulations. Prior to the puck drop, he engaged with the squad by reading the starting lineup, setting an enthusiastic tone for the night.
"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," Governor Cooper remarked, capturing the essence of Brind'Amour’s selfless leadership style. “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.”
A Legacy Built on Dedication and Excellence
Rod Brind'Amour's journey with the Carolina Hurricanes is one sculpted by dedication and excellence. He is currently steering the team through his seventh season as head coach, but his ties to the franchise run deeper. He was a central figure for over a decade, having worn the captain’s 'C' during the Hurricanes’ unforgettable run to Stanley Cup glory in 2006.
Brind'Amour’s influence transcends the rink. His commitment to hockey extends into the community, where he’s actively involved in fostering youth hockey programs. This devotion underscores the very reason Governor Cooper accorded him such a high honor – he is not just a coach but an architect of the sport’s growth in the state.
Despite the attention and accolades, Brind'Amour remains characteristically humble. “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, deflecting credit back to the team and staff who support him.
Governor's Connection to the Sport
In his tenure, Governor Cooper has not shied away from celebrating North Carolina’s sporting contributors. At 67, he approaches the twilight of his second term, adhering to the term limits set forth by the state. His time in office has seen him confer the Order of the Long Leaf Pine to other sports luminaries, including basketball coaching legend Mike Krzyzewski and soon, Roy Williams. These honors reflect his appreciation and understanding of sports as a significant cultural and economic contributor to the state.
In a light-hearted, yet earnest exhortation to Brind'Amour, Cooper added, “Coach, it's time to get that Stanley Cup this time.” While the remark drew laughter, it underscored the optimism and expectations surrounding the team.
Reflections on the Horizon
The Carolina Hurricanes now stand on the precipice of what promises to be another gripping season. With Coach Brind'Amour at the helm, the franchise continues to benefit from his wealth of experience and unyielding drive to succeed. The coming games loom large with promise, bolstered by a team and coach who are ever-hungry for glory.
As for Governor Cooper’s support, it remains an enduring testament to how sports can knit together communities and uplift individuals to their highest potential. His tribute to Brind'Amour serves as a reminder of coaches and players whose influence reaches beyond the ice, touching lives and shaping legacies.