Trump recently selected several sports figures and political donors for this honor; Belichick did not accept.
FOXBOROUGH, Massachusetts. – The US president is planning to coach the New England Patriots, Bill Belichick, the Presidential Medal of Freedom Thursday, confirmed a White House official ABC news.
Minutes after the presidential office’s resolution was announced, the head coach arrived Bill Belichick announced that he will not receive the award or travel to Washington. In a statement, the coach left his position on the matter:
“I recently had the opportunity to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, so I felt flattered out of respect for what honor represents and in admiration for previous recipients. The tragic events of last week then took place and it was decided not to proceed with the award ”.
“Most of all, I am an American citizen with great respect for the values, freedom and democracy of our country. I know I also represent my family and the New England Patriots team. One of the most rewarding things in my career happened in 2020, when, through great leadership within our team, conversations about social justice, equality and human rights emerged and took action. “
“Continuing those efforts while staying true to the people, team and country I love outweighs the benefits of an individual award.”
Bill Belichick, HC of the Patriots, will not travel to Washington and accept the Presidential Medal of Freedom, he announced today. pic.twitter.com/uvLLigFlHU
– Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 12, 2021
The Presidential Medal of Freedom was instituted in 1963 by John F. Kennedy, and is awarded by the President to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to national security interests, world peace or culture, or other significant public or private endeavors.
Trump recently selected several sports figures and political sponsors for this honor. Hall of Fame golfers Annika Sorenstam and Gary Player, along with the late Olympian Babe Didrikson Zaharias, received the medal.
68-year-old Belichick has just completed his 46th NFL season and 21st as the Patriots head coach. He led the franchise to six Super Bowl championships, joining George HLAS and Curly Lambeau as the only six since the league had a postseason in 1933.
Belichick’s 311 wins (regular season and playoffs combined) are the third record ever behind Don Shuula (347) and Halas (324).
Belichick’s connection to Trump was in the news days before Trump was elected president in November 2016.
Belichick has served on the President’s Sports, Fitness and Nutrition Council since 2018.
Politics first reported on Trump’s plans to hand over the medal to Bill Belichick.