JOSEPH PREZIOSO/AFP via Getty ImagesLegendary quarterback Tom Brady was inducted into the New England Patriots Hall of Fame on Wednesday night, and he delivered an inspirational speech about what football meant to him.
Brady said he "would encourage everyone to play football" because the game provides lessons that "teach us that success and achievement come from overcoming adversity, and that team accomplishment far exceeds anyone's individual goals."
NFL @NFLEverybody needs to listen to this speech from Tom Brady 🗣️ (via <a href="https://twitter.com/Patriots?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Patriots</a>) <a href="https://t.co/fOwsv6FNxU">pic.twitter.com/fOwsv6FNxU</a>
The 46-year-old went on to detail the qualities that helped make him successful during his legendary career, which included seven Super Bowl rings and three NFL MVPs.
"The truth is, you don't have to be special. You just have to be what most people aren't. Consistent, determined and willing to work for it. No shortcuts," he said. "If you look at all my teammates here tonight, it would be impossible to find better examples of men who embody that work ethic, integrity, purpose, determination, and discipline that it takes to be a champion in life."
In 20 years in New England, Brady established himself as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history by leading the team to six Super Bowl titles.
He became the 35th player inducted into the team's Hall of Fame. The Patriots held an extravagant ceremony for him in front of a sold-out crowd at Gillette Stadium.
Several of Brady's former teammates were in attendance on Wednesday, including Rob Gronkowski, Julian Edelman, Randy Moss, Willie McGinest, Devin McCourty, Vince Wilfork, Ty Law and Wes Welker, among many others.
Former coach Bill Belichick, assistants Josh McDaniels, Matt Patricia and Bill O'Brien and Patriots owner Robert Kraft were all present as well.
During the ceremony, Kraft officially retired Brady's No. 12 jersey and announced plans to unveil a 12-foot-tall statue of the former quarterback during the 2024 season.
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