An Epochal Open Letter from Center Sebastian Aho to the Carolina Hurricanes, Fans, and the Whole Carolina Hurricanes Community
Dear Hurricanes Fans and Carolina Hurricanes Organization,
As I sit down to write this letter, I am overwhelmed with gratitude and pride. The words I am about to write are impossible to completely communicate the depth of my thanks for all this amazing organization, its dedicated fandom, and my colleagues have given me over the years. Your encouragement has been truly inspiring, and I consider myself extremely fortunate to be a member of this unique community.
I knew I was about to go on an incredible journey the moment I put on the Carolina Hurricanes jersey. This franchise, with its rich history and dedicated following, embraced me with open arms, and my career has been defined ever since by the organization’s and your—the fans’—unwavering belief and trust. As I continue my journey with the Hurricanes, I can’t help but think about how much I’ve grown as a player and as a person, all owing to the environment this community has created.
The importance of the Hurricanes’ coaching staff and front office cannot be emphasized. Over the years, they’ve given me the resources and support I needed to improve my talents, deepen my understanding of the game, and push myself to be the greatest version of myself on and off the ice. Coach Rod Brind’Amour’s mentorship, as well as the organization’s unrelenting pursuit of quality, inspires me to push my limits and contribute to the team’s success in any way I can.
But it wasn’t simply the coaches and front office staff who influenced my journey. The fans are the heart and soul of our organization. I’ve often stated that there is no venue like PNC Arena. The enthusiasm, emotion, and environment you produce on game days are simply exceptional. Every time I step onto the ice, I feel the great support of the “Caniacs” propelling us forward. Your unrelenting passion and love for this club inspire us, and it’s an honor to represent this organization while knowing you’re with us every step of the way.
Throughout my work, there have been innumerable moments of delight, hardships, and progress. But one thing has stayed constant: the Carolina Hurricanes community has always supported me. Whether in triumph or hardship, your faith in me and the team has been a source of strength. For this, I am eternally grateful. You’ve made me feel like I belong here, and I will always do everything I can to give back to this great community, every shift, every game.
As I look ahead, I am filled with enthusiasm and confidence about what the future holds. The Hurricanes are on a tremendous journey, and I’m proud to be a part of it. We’re working on something amazing together, and I’m confident that with your ongoing support, we’ll succeed.
Carolina, I appreciate everything you’ve given me. Your love and support have helped me grow as a player and a person, and I will be eternally grateful for the opportunity to wear this shirt and represent this incredible community.
With heartfelt gratitude and dedication.
Sebastian Aho,
Center Carolina Hurricanes