Early Life and Education of Bill Belichick: A Complete Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Bill Belichick. From birth to education, explore key events.

Bill Belichick is an American football coach widely considered one of the greatest of all time. He holds the record for most Super Bowl wins as a head coach (six), all earned with the New England Patriots. He also secured two Super Bowl wins as the defensive coordinator for the New York Giants, for a total of eight Super Bowl victories as coach and coordinator. Known for his deep understanding of football history and player positions, he is often called a "student of the game". As the Patriots' head coach and de facto general manager from 2001 to 2019, Belichick was central to the team's dynasty.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

April 16, 1952: Bill Belichick's Birth

On April 16, 1952, William Stephen Belichick was born. He is now widely regarded as one of the greatest head coaches of all time.

1970: Graduated from Annapolis High School

In 1970, Bill Belichick graduated from Annapolis High School where he played football and lacrosse.

1975: Earned bachelor's degree in economics

In 1975, Belichick earned a bachelor's degree in economics from Wesleyan University, marking the completion of his formal education.

1977: Marriage to Debby Clarke

In 1977, Bill Belichick married Debby Clarke Belichick.

2006: Divorce from Debby Clarke Belichick

In 2006, Bill Belichick and Debby Clarke Belichick divorced.

2008: Inducted into Wesleyan University's Athletics Hall of Fame

In Spring 2008, Belichick was part of the inaugural induction class into Wesleyan University's Athletics Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to the university's sports programs.

2011: Inducted into Phillips Academy's Athletics Hall of Honor

In 2011, Phillips Academy inducted Bill Belichick into its Athletics Hall of Honor, recognizing his achievements and contributions to the school's athletic program.

July 2015: Daughter Amanda becomes head coach at College of the Holy Cross

In July 2015, Belichick's daughter Amanda became the head women's lacrosse coach at the College of the Holy Cross.

May 2018: Appointed to Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition

In May 2018, Bill Belichick was appointed by President Donald Trump to be a member of his Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition.

2020: Nike's Appearance on Camera

In 2020, Belichick's dog, Nike, an Alaskan Klee Kai, appeared on camera during the NFL draft, leading to increased interest in the breed.

January 10, 2021: Trump planned to award Belichick the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

On January 10, 2021, it was reported that then-President Donald Trump planned to award Bill Belichick the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

2021: Initial Meeting with Jordon Hudson

In 2021, Belichick and Jordon Hudson reportedly met on a flight.

2023: Start of Relationship with Jordon Hudson

Reportedly, Bill Belichick and Jordon Hudson have been dating since 2023.

2023: Relationship with Linda Holliday Ends

The relationship between Bill Belichick and Linda Holliday ended in 2023.

January 11, 2024: Belichick and Patriots Part Ways

On January 11, 2024, Bill Belichick and the Patriots mutually agreed to part ways after a long and successful tenure.

June 3, 2024: Receives Croatian Citizenship

On June 3, 2024, Bill Belichick received Croatian citizenship in Zagreb from the Croatian prime minister Andrej Plenković, and was a special guest at a football match between Croatia and North Macedonia.

June 2024: Relationship with Jordon Hudson Reported

In June 2024, it was reported that Bill Belichick was in a relationship with Jordon Hudson, a 24-year-old former cheerleader and pageant runner-up.

August 2025: Trademark Applications Submitted

In August 2025, Bill Belichick and Jordon Hudson submitted 17 trademark applications through their company, TCE Rights Management, for phrases linked to Belichick.