When legendary head coach Bill Belichick announced on Thursday that he was parting ways with the New England Patriots, many took to social media to honor and remember what Belichick accomplished throughout his career. But while what he did on the field was the primary focus, a significant move he made off the field was also remembered this week.
As USA Today columnist Christine Brennan pointed out on social media on Thursday, Bill Belichick turned down a Medal of Freedom honor from former United States President Donald Trump as a result of the Jan. 6 Capitol riots back in 2021.
“As we look back on Bill Belichick’s career, it’s worthwhile to remember that he turned down appearing with Donald Trump after Jan. 6 when others in the sports (golf) world did not,” Brennan said in a post on X.
As we look back on Bill Belichick’s career, it’s worthwhile to remember that he turned down appearing with Donald Trump after Jan. 6 when others in the sports (golf) world did not. https://t.co/lnu5z07rwZ
— Christine Brennan (@cbrennansports) January 11, 2024
At the time of his decision, Belichick offered a statement to explain his decision.
“Recently, I was offered the opportunity to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which I was flattered by out of respect for what the honor represents and admiration for prior recipients. Subsequently, the tragic events of last week occurred and the decision has been made not to move forward with the award. Above all, I am an American citizen with great reverence for our nation’s values, freedom and democracy,” Belichick said in a statement.
“I know I also represent my family and the New England Patriots team. One of the most rewarding things in my professional career took place in 2020 when, through the great leadership within our team, conversations about social justice, equality and human rights moved to the forefront and became actions. Continuing those efforts while remaining true to the people, team and country I love outweigh the benefits of any individual award.”
It’s a pretty bold move from Belichick, and it led to a lot of reactions this week after the decision to part ways with the Patriots.
Belichick the goat 🐐 https://t.co/gI6TpHUUjU
— Clarence Hill Jr (@clarencehilljr) January 11, 2024
the bar for sports figures is so low but i’ll at least give him this https://t.co/Z1EqibdSme
— divya (@divsss9) January 11, 2024
Excellent reminder. At the time, I could not believe Annika did what she did.
— Alan H. Weinhouse (@WeinhouseH) January 11, 2024
Much respect to him for that.
— Ray David (@canadianninjeh) January 11, 2024
Principled action.
— Inez Russell Gomez (@inezrussell) January 11, 2024
A gentleman off the field with true moral fibre and character. Mr Belichick 👏👏👏
— Miriam Edison (@AnneMcI55800645) January 11, 2024
It’s clear that Belichick earned himself a lot of respect for that move, and it adds to his legacy.
