Tebow: Athletes should be better role models

Unlike Charles Barkley, Tim Tebow has no problems being a role model.

In fact, the Jets backup quarterback thrives in that role -- and he thinks more sports figures should.

Speaking in front of an estimated crowd of 26,000 at San Diego's Qualcomm Stadium on Father's Day, Tebow stressed the importance of athletes setting an example for future generations.

"To me, that's so frustrating because you have in today's society so many famous athletes in baseball and basketball and football and golf, every sport there is," he said.

"If we come together to be great role models it would be amazing to see how the next generation turns out."

Tebow -- a devout Christian -- was a guest speaker at Shadow Mountain Community Church's sponsored event, titled "Father's Day 2012 -- Encouraging Men to Live, Love and Lead." He was interviewed on stage for about 35 minutes by Shadow Mountain pastor David Jeremiah and at the conclusion of the free public event, he greeted fans.

Tebow, 24, told the crowd he had received "a lot of flak" in the past for making similar remarks about athletes being better role models. "But I don't care," he said. "There are a lot of role models. There just aren’t a lot of good ones."

The former Florida quarterback also praised his own role, former NFL and Gator QB Danny Wuerffel, who spoke openly about his Christianity during his pro career.

"He was a huge role model for me," said Tebow, "And that is my dream and my passion: to be a great role model for the next generations and the boys who are looking up to me and their dream is to be a quarterback and a great football player.

"I want to be a good role model for them."

...Apparently Tebow and Sir Charles are on different wavelengths.