Bill Belichick Gets Choked Up Thanking the Fans in His Final Press Conference as a Member of the New England Patriots

Bill Belichick nearly came to tears during his final press conference as the head coach and general manager of the New England Patriots.

On Thursday morning, after months of speculation, it was reported Belichick would indeed be parting ways with the team he helmed for 24 seasons. At noon, Belichick and team owner Robert Kraft read prepared statements during the conference.

In Belichick’s statement, he thanked Kraft, the team and all the players he’s coached over nearly a quarter of a century. Then, when he shared some words about the fans, the famously stoic Belichick began speaking with a noticeable tremble in his voice.

“And finally, to the fans,” Belichick said. “The fans here are amazing. There’s so many memories of the fans. The send-offs, the parades, the Sundays — whatever the situations are — the letters of support, seeing the fans away from here at a gas station or a grocery store where you just bump into them.

“And not just in New England, but they extend nationally and even internationally. As I’ve traveled, it’s amazing how far the arm reaches. We saw that this year in Germany. So appreciative of the fans for the all the support they’ve given me, my family, and this football team. There’s so many fond memories and thoughts when I think about the Patriots. I’ll always be a Patriot. I look forward to coming back here; but at this time, we’re gonna move on and I look forward to and am excited for the future.”

After his statement, Belichick shook Kraft’s hand and thanked him.

Watch above via ESPN.