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Tim Tebow addresses the Wichita State University men’s basketball team. Coach Gregg Marshall looks on. Photo by Kellen Marshall
Tim Tebow addresses the Wichita State University men’s basketball team. Coach Gregg Marshall looks on. Photo by Kellen Marshall

What do New York Jets quarterback and former Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow have in common with the Wichita State University men’s basketball team? Besides entertaining sports fans with their winning abilities, both understand that private aviation brings people together. Often in powerful ways.

Tebow and the WSU Shockers recently met up on the tarmac. The team had just flown in to Wichita’s Mid-Continent Airport, returning from their game-changing upset of Gonzaga, the NCAA Tournament No. 1 seed. Tebow’s jet also happened to be at the airport refueling. When he learned that the victorious team was nearby, he couldn’t resist a chance to talk to the players.

Mid-Continent Airport employees line up to show their support for the local team. Courtesy Mid-Continent Airport.
Mid-Continent Airport employees line up to show their support for the local team. Courtesy Mid-Continent Airport.

Tebow donned his motivational speaker mantle and joined Coach Gregg Marshall and the team on their bus. He congratulated them on their victory, saying no matter what the future holds, they would never forget this unexpected win, the memories they’re making or the people they’re inspiring. Tebow’s singular act – taking time to connect before boarding his aircraft – will no doubt do some inspiring of its own. Tonight, March 28 they play a Sweet 16 game against La Salle in Los Angeles.

Wichita Fire Department and Mid-Continent employees give departing Wichita State University charter jet a water cannon salute. Courtesy Mid-Continent Airport.
Wichita Fire Department and Mid-Continent employees give departing Wichita State University charter jet a water cannon salute. Courtesy Mid-Continent Airport.

*Originally published in BlueSky Business Aviation News on March 28, 2013.