Touted as the greatest college athlete of all time, Tim Tebow is having to learn how to deal with the struggles of the modern day athlete. You don't have to stretch to your imagination too far to wonder what type of preferential treatment Tebow would have received in his glorious college days from the football department at the Florida Gators.
The number one gun slinger in town would not have had to travel far to get his ego boosted every time he needed a shot in the confidence department. You can't say he was not entitled to it, given his achievements at the collegian level.
Unfortunately for some very superb athletes, there finest moments come at the amateur level. Many cult heroes fail to take the leap to the big stage. Some not for a lack of talent, it can just simply be the change in style and mechanics simply does not suit their skill set.
Tim Tebow definitely falls into this category, his dominating, intimidating role as a college quarterback just does not transfer into today's modern day professional NFL quarter back mould.
After 2 years of ups and downs it appears Tebow's career hit the exit ramp to retirement. It really is has been an unfortunate story for many of his admirers and the man himself. It's been a long time since one athlete spurred so much emotion from such a vast group of people.
For a guy who supposedly had no professional talent he is best remembered for moments of adversity under fire, for instance orchestrating an inspirational come from behind victory against the Miami Dolphins that saw them score 18 points in the final three minutes of the game.
He career should also be remembered as a man of conviction and faith, being able to maintain such a strong faith in a very competitive atmosphere. Some athletes might crumble under the pressure or develop an anxiety related mental illness from the constant threat of scrutiny from self or others. For Tebow this was not such a worry. His resilience is not based on personal belief, but rather on spiritual practicality.
During his college years his faith was continually scrutinised, the NCAA actually created what they now call the "Tebow" rule after 93 million people "Google searched" the Phrase "John 3:16", After Tebow wrote it in his Tar below his eyes during a night game, preventing players from writing anything on their face.
Whether Tim Tebow finds a home this offseason or if he remains homeless he will be remembered as a true role model to young athletes around the world. That, under pressure, you don't need to fold and give in to the crowd. Tebow taught us to have the faith to follow your dreams.
I don't think we will ever see a legend created like this again having played such a small portion of NFL games ever again. If he does get another game make sure you savour the moment and understand the experience that is Tim Tebow.
There is a rumour circulating that Tebow may put his name forward for the veterans combine and try and enter the NFL by being drafted back into the league. Could this be his second coming? Or will it end up being a sideshow filed with hype and little meat on the bone? Only time will tell, and one thing for sure is that it's going to make for some great viewing.
Josh Hinds is a school chaplain on the Gold Coast, a family man and PSI's IT professional. Josh is an experienced writer on international sport.
Josh Hinds' previous articles may be viewed at www.pressserviceinternational.org/joshua-hinds.html