Governor honors coach Rod Brind'Amour after game victory

In Raleigh, North Carolina, following a decisive 4-1 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets, Carolina Hurricanes coach Rod Brind'Amour was awarded the state’s highest honor, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. This prestigious recognition, presented by Governor Roy Cooper, acknowledges individuals who have made significant contributions to the state and their communities. Governor Cooper highlighted Brind'Amour’s impact on North Carolina, noting his legacy as both a player and a coach while praising his efforts to nurture youth hockey and foster a winning culture within the Hurricanes organization. The event took place in the team’s locker room, where the Governor had interactions with the players before officially recognizing Brind'Amour. Cooper's presentation aligns with his longstanding support for the Hurricanes, reflecting his attendance at numerous games and his commitment to the team and its community. He elaborated on the extraordinary significance of Brind'Amour’s contributions, stating that the coach’s influence is felt beyond the ice by creating job opportunities associated with the team, thereby positively impacting the state’s economy. Brind'Amour has had a distinguished career with the Carolina Hurricanes, both as a player and in his current coaching role. He became the captain during the franchise's only Stanley Cup championship in 2006 and has now entered his seventh season as head coach. His coaching tenure has been marked by his dedication to his players and a focus on team success above personal accolades. Despite the recognition, Brind'Amour maintained a humble demeanor, emphasizing the collective effort of his team and the supportive community surrounding them. Additionally, Governor Cooper mentioned previous recipients of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, including retired Duke men’s basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski, indicating the honor's prestige within the state. In concluding the ceremony, Cooper encouraged Brind'Amour to aim for another Stanley Cup victory, appealing to the coach's competitive spirit and passion for the sport. The honor signifies not only Brind'Amour's contributions to hockey but also his embodiment of North Carolina’s values through leadership, dedication, and community engagement.