How Hamilton The Pig Became the Carolina Hurricane's Unofficial Mascot

As the Carolina Hurricanes begin a new season, we look back on their epic 2019 playoff season and the unlikely good-luck charm that stole the hearts of fans and players alike. 

Meet Kyle & Karoline Eckenrode. Their pet pig, Hamilton, became a huge fan favorite and an unofficial mascot of the Carolina Hurricanes that season.

Canes fans considered Hamilton a good luck charm, so much so that Kyle Eckenrode ("Pig Dad") made the trip to Washington, D.C., with Hamilton in tow, for game 7 in the playoff series against the Capitals. The Hurricanes won that game (in double overtime!), winning their first playoff series in ten years. 

Hamilton's celebrity skyrocketed. He was a frequent guest at playoff games that season, bringing joy to fans at pre-game tailgates and even a bit of luck to the players themselves. 

This VIP (Very Important Pig) has since retired from his "unofficial mascot" days. He now spends his days lazing in the Eckenrodes' sunroom and roaming their yard for snacks. That is one lucky pig, indeed!