What a change a year can bring! It seems like only yesterday when the world of collegiate football was introduced to none other than Timothy Richard Tebow, aka “Tim Tebow.” His story is very touching for those of us who have become aware of this athletic phenomenon.

He was born to Bob and Pam Tebow when they lived in the Philippines. While pregnant with Tim, Pam suffered life-threatening complications. She learned that she would have to make a choice; she could move forward with the pregnancy or have an abortion to save her own life. As a strong Christian oriented family, they banded together and chose Tim’s life over the doctor’s recommendations. Had it not been his parent’s unwavering faith, we may have never come to know such a great, fun-loving, and highly talented kid, who grew up in Jacksonville, Florida.

Tim played most of his high school level football at Nease High School in St. Augustine, FL. He excelled as a highly touted Division I college prospect and was name Florida’s Player of the Year during both his junior and senior years of high school.

He was also an excellent student while attending the University of Florida, despite dealing with the distractions and rigors of being a student athlete in a high profile football program.

He regularly sacrifices his body for his team and is always willing to accept responsibility for all of his team’s failures, even if the world refuses to place the blame solely on his shoulders. His show of emotion is so genuine that I find myself rooting for the guy even if he doesn’t play for my favorite team.

By the time his career was over at Florida, he largely contributed to the school’s winning of two BCS championships in a three-year span. He contributed to the 2007 championship in a back up role, and largely willed his entire team to a near undefeated season and another championship in 2009.The guy’s resolve can never be questioned, as he just wants to win and boy does he do so!

You won’t find many people who aren’t in Tim’s corner, although he does have to overcome the next major hurdle in his football career, as he embarks on a mission to take his game to the pro level.  There are many sports experts who question Tim’s ability to translate into an NFL level quarterback. In fact, many insist that he needs to change positions to even have a chance at the next level.

Problem is; the volume must be down because Tim’s not listening. He’s been told that he can’t do ‘something’ all his life and he’s continued to prove the naysayer wrong. We’ll just have to wait and see if Timmy can meet this latest challenge, though at the rate he’s going, I wouldn’t be too quick to bet against the kid!