Bill Belichick returns to hometown to receive special honor

Bill Belichick has little time for fanfare as prepares for the 2021 NFL Draft, but the New England Patriots head coach made a fitting exception this weekend.

Belichick attended Saturday's men's lacrosse game between Navy and Army and was given the key to the city of Annapolis by Mayor Gavin Buckley during a halftime ceremony.

The ceremony was a special moment for Belichick, who grew up in Annapolis where his father, Stephen, was an assistant coach for the Navy football team. The 69-year-old head coach played lacrosse and football at Annapolis High School and in college as well at Wesleyan University.

"It’s an incredible honor to be recognized by your hometown," Belichick said during the ceremony, which included a two-minute video tribute featuring former Navy long snapper and current Patriot Joe Cardona, among others. "There’s nothing bigger than that. I’m so proud to be an Annapolitan."

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Saturday's ceremony was also three years in the making: Buckley had tried to give Belichick the key to Annapolis on two previous occasions but the logistics didn't work out.

"It feels so amazing to recognize a legendary figure in Coach Bill Belichick, who is one of the most humble people I’ve ever met,” Buckley said. “It’s the classic example of local boy made good. Coach Belichick got his start here in Annapolis then went on to do so many incredible things."

Belichick's longtime girlfriend, Linda Holliday, congratulated her partner via her Instagram story, writing, "Local man finally makes it BIG!" Holliday also revealed the two enjoyed a round of golf while in the area.

Belichick likely will get back to work soon ahead of next Thursday's draft, but the six-time Super Bowl-winning head coach his roots close to his heart, so this had to be a special day for him.