While the regular season doesn't begin until Thursday night for the Carolina Hurricanes, their captain is already earning incredible honors for his work and dedication to the organization. On Tuesday, Jordan Staal was honored by NC Governor Josh Stein and bestowed the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, the highest civilian honor that can be given by the state's governor.
First created in 1963, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, or simply The Order, has been given to individuals who have made significant contributions to North Carolina and their communities. They're considered honorary North Carolina "ambassadors," though the distinction is not limited to persons born in North Carolina.
The roster of recipients is quite an impressive one. It features a wide array of individuals, from sports icons, like Mike Krzyzewski and Michael Jordan, to civil rights leaders, like Maya Angelou and Coretta Scott King, to actors, like Sidney Poitier and Andy Griffith, and many, many more. It's a real who's who of famous people, both from North Carolina and beyond.
Among those who've received the honor is current head coach and Stanley Cup-winning captain Rod Brind'Amour. He was honored in the locker room by outgoing governor Roy Cooper last December, following the team's 4-1 victory against the Columbus Blue Jackets. He became the first member of the Hurricanes organization to ever receive The Order.
Staal was one of six athletes and coaches honored during Tuesday's ceremony. He was joined by former NC State football standout and Super Bowl champion Torry Holt, NC State baseball coach Elliot Avent, NC Central basketball coach LeVelle Moton, three-time Olympic gold medalist soccer player and UNC legend Heather O'Reilly, and UNC lacrosse legend and head coach Jenny Levy.
Entering his 20th season in the NHL, Staal is playing his 14th season with the Hurricanes and is approaching the team record for games played, which he'll pass his brother, Eric, to beat once he plays his 13th game. He's in the Top 10 in most major offensive categories, needing two goals to reach 300 for his career. Staal is also one of the best defensive forwards in the game.
Along with his accomplishments on the ice, Staal and his family have done excellent work for children and families battling cancer through the Staal Family Foundation. Over the last nine years, the Staal Family Foundation has raised nearly $5 million.
This is an incredible honor for both Jordan Staal and the Hurricanes organization. Along with their success on the ice, the team does a lot to represent the city and the state as best they can. For some, this honor might not feel like a big deal. However, to be recognized amongst such company speaks volumes to the character of this team's captain and everything he has done to represent the team.