Tim Tebow, the Florida Gators' Quarterback is exceptional in many ways. He received the Heisman Trophy as a sophomore last year. This was the first time the trophy was ever awarded to a sophomore.

He carries a 3.77 grade point average after being home-schooled for twelve years. He spent his spring break in the Philippines helping orphans and sick kids.

At 20 years of age, he realizes that though there are many role models in sports and other industries with well known individuals, many of the role models are not good ones. Tebow realizes that "people are always watching," so it is best to be on your best behavior.

When you put all this together you find the portrait of a leader and of a special human being. Not because of the trophies, but because of walking the talk.

As a result, Tebow was awarded the Medallion of Excellence from the Florida Senate and House. The Medallion of Excellence is an enormous honor for many reasons, but most of all, because it is awarded on the basis of what a person – Tebow, in particular – has done off the field.

This is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon an individual by the House and Senate in Florida. In addition, Tebow was also honored with a resolution in the House.

Tebow threw a few passes and finished by stating that "we are a nation in need of character and in need of doing the right thing." That is a true statement and is telling of why Tebow received and deserves the recognition he received.

If you are a Gator, a Gator fan, or family/friends of a Gator, Tebow and his award should inspire you to be proud of the Gators; proud that such an amazing young man chose UF and has caused a positive light to shine on the Gators.

With some of the tough things that have happened this year, Tebow stands out as a shining example of what he himself says the nation needs: character.

Support your Gators. Encourage others to become heroes with character. Show your spirit.