Governor Stein Inducts Nine Into Order of the Long Leaf Pine for State Service

Governor Josh Stein welcomed nine people into The Order of the Long Leaf Pine on Friday. The award recognizes their work for North Carolina through sports and helping others.

“These exceptional North Carolinians have excelled in sports and, beyond their wins, demonstrated deep commitment to their communities,” Stein said, according to WECT. “I am honored to recognize them today for their athletic excellence and community contributions.”

This honor stands as one of the most prized awards a North Carolina Governor can give. It goes to people who have made a real difference and helped strengthen the state, according to The Order of the Long Leaf Pine website.

Greg Biffle from Iredell County made the list. He's a NASCAR champion who flew rescue missions during Hurricane Helene. Shawn Clark from Watauga County also received it — he coaches football at Appalachian State and played offensive line before that.

Rodney Rogers from Durham County got recognized for his time at Wake Forest, where he became ACC Player of the Year. He won the NBA Sixth Man award too. Now he speaks up for people with disabilities.

Debbie Antonelli from Wake County earned her spot through basketball analysis work and fundraising for Special Olympics. She played at NC State, then became the play-by-play announcer for the Indiana Fever.

Kayden Beasley from Harnett County won gold medals in Paralympic and World Para ice hockey. Bob McKillop from Mecklenburg County coached at Davidson and won the 2008 national coach of the year award — he's up for the Hall of Fame now.

Mystique Ro from Mecklenburg County competes in skeleton for Team USA. She won a world medal and started Project Push Gold Fund.

Martin Willard from New Hanover County teaches sailing at Wrightsville Beach, finished in the top 10 at world regattas, and works to protect the coast. John Wall from Wake County was the No. 1 NBA pick and made five All-Star teams — he runs a family foundation and hosts the Holiday Invitational.

The ceremony happened in Raleigh.