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Trump's planned Medal of Freedom for football coach Belichick stirs outcry in Boston

By Tim McLaughlin

BOSTON (Reuters) - A plan by U.S. President Donald Trump to give Bill Belichick, the legendary coach of the New England Patriots, the Medal of Freedom this week has worried some fans that accepting it would tarnish the football team's franchise and wreck chances of rebuilding a dynasty that had its first losing season since 2000.

Politico reported on Sunday night that Trump would bestow the highest civilian honor on Belichick. A person familiar with Trump's plans confirmed the report's accuracy.

The Boston-based Patriots and Belichick did not immediately respond to requests for comment.