Croatian President Zoran Milanović has awarded William Stephen Belichick, the most decorated coach in American football history, with the Order of the Croatian Morning Star with the image of Franjo Bučar, according to the Office of the President.
“The President decorated Belichick for special merits in promoting Croatia’s reputation and interests in the United States of America during an exceptional sports career over many years,” an official press release noted.
Bill Belichick, an American of Croatian descent, has coached several professional National Football League (NFL) teams throughout his long and successful career. His greatest achievements came with the New England Patriots, under whose leadership the team won six Super Bowls, the final playoff game for the NFL championship and one of the most-watched sporting events in the United States.
Throughout his career, Belichick has often proudly highlighted his Croatian heritage.
