Rod Brind’Amour, the esteemed head coach of the Carolina Hurricanes, has a rich family history that intertwines with his illustrious hockey career. Born on August 9, 1970, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, Brind’Amour’s journey from a young hockey enthusiast to a Stanley Cup champion and respected coach is deeply influenced by his family’s support and legacy.
Early Life and Family Background
Brind’Amour’s parents, Bob and Linda Brind’Amour, originally hailed from Buckingham, Quebec, a town approximately 10 miles from Thurso, the birthplace of hockey legend Guy Lafleur. This proximity to hockey greatness perhaps foreshadowed Rod’s future in the sport. Shortly after Rod’s birth, the family relocated to Campbell River, British Columbia, where Bob worked as a pipe fitter. Bob’s dedication to his work and family laid a foundation of hard work and perseverance that Rod would carry throughout his career.
In June 2023, the Brind’Amour family faced the loss of Bob Brind’Amour. Bob was not only a devoted father but also a steadfast supporter of Rod’s career, attending games and providing unwavering encouragement. His passing was deeply felt within the hockey community, especially among the Carolina Hurricanes, where his presence had become a cherished fixture.
Marriages and Children
Rod Brind’Amour’s personal life has seen two significant partnerships. His first marriage was to Kelle Sullivan Gardner on August 4, 1996, in Ottawa. The couple had three children: Ty, Emma, and Skyler. Ty pursued hockey, playing for the Carolina Jr. Canes youth team and graduating from Quinnipiac University in 2019. Skyler followed closely in his father’s footsteps, playing collegiate hockey for Quinnipiac University and contributing to their NCAA title win in 2023. As of November 2024, Skyler plays professionally for the Chicago Wolves in the American Hockey League (AHL). Emma, while less publicly involved in hockey, remains a supportive presence within the family.
After his divorce from Kelle in 2004, Rod married Amy Biedenbach on July 10, 2010. Amy, originally from Pennsylvania, is the daughter of Eddie Biedenbach, a former basketball standout at North Carolina State University and coach at UNC Asheville. She holds a marketing degree from the University of Delaware and has been a dedicated stay-at-home mom since their marriage. Amy is also actively involved in charitable endeavors, serving on the board of the Carolina Hurricanes Foundation and supporting causes such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Ronald McDonald House.
Together, Rod and Amy have a son named Luke, who, as of November 2024, is actively participating in hockey, with aspirations to follow in his father’s footsteps. The family’s involvement in hockey extends beyond Rod’s professional commitments, creating a household deeply connected to the sport.
Legacy and Influence
The Brind’Amour family’s influence on hockey is profound. Rod’s leadership as captain led the Carolina Hurricanes to their first Stanley Cup victory in 2006, and his transition to coaching has been marked by significant success, including receiving the Jack Adams Award in 2021. His coaching philosophy emphasizes hard work, discipline, and integrity—values instilled in him by his parents.
Skyler Brind’Amour’s burgeoning career adds to the family’s hockey legacy. In September 2024, Skyler played his first NHL game under the guidance of his father during a preseason match against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Reflecting on the experience, Skyler expressed, “Once the game started, it was just playing hockey. I had a lot of fun playing. It’s always cool to put on the NHL sweater, especially one from your hometown.” Rod acknowledged the unique nature of the moment, stating, “In the heat of it, he’s trying to prove himself, and we’re just trying to get through a day here. But it was nice… a nice moment.”
Conclusion
The Brind’Amour family’s history is a testament to dedication, resilience, and a profound love for hockey. From Bob and Linda’s supportive upbringing to Rod’s storied career and his children’s active involvement in the sport, the family’s narrative is interwoven with the fabric of hockey culture. Their collective contributions continue to inspire and shape the future of the game, underscoring the enduring legacy of the Brind’Amour name in the world of ice hockey.
