North Carolina Governor Josh Stein recognized six prominent sports figures last Friday, presenting them with The Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of the state’s highest civilian honors, according to the official state website. The award acknowledges individuals for their outstanding service and contributions to North Carolina.
As per the North Carolina Office of the Governor's website, the honorees included Torry Holt, former NC State football player and Super Bowl champion; Heather O’Reilly, UNC Women’s Soccer alumna and World Cup and Olympic champion; Jenny Levy, UNC Women’s Lacrosse coach and four-time national champion; Elliott Avent, NC State baseball coach and program wins leader; LeVelle Moton, NC Central men’s basketball coach and program wins leader; and Jordan Staal, captain of the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes.
Governor Stein stated that the recipients have strengthened the state through their achievements and leadership in sports, both on and off the field.
