Success in the trenches rarely comes with much recognition. Offensive and defensive linemen spend most Friday nights doing the hard, physical work that allows everyone else to shine. For Hilldale senior Maxx Frost, that’s exactly where he wants to be.

Entering his final high school football season, Frost has embraced the demanding role of playing on both the offensive and defensive lines, relying on toughness, discipline and an unselfish approach to the game. His passion for football began at home, where his father helped fuel his love for the sport.

“My dad inspires me to play football because I know how much he loves the sport and how much he wants me to succeed in it,” Frost said.

Life in the trenches isn’t easy. Frost regularly lines up against opponents who have a significant size advantage, forcing him to rely on technique, leverage and determination every snap.

“The hardest part about both is going against guys who are 50 more pounds than me on average,” he said.

While the physical battles are part of the game, Frost says the friendships built through football are what he’ll remember most.

“I enjoy being able to play the game with my best friends,” he said. “All my teammates are fun to be around, and I just love that everyone works their butt off to make us better as a team.”

Those relationships have produced plenty of unforgettable moments. One memory that still stands out came during last season’s game against Glenpool, when the Hornets broke loose for a game-changing play.

“We ran a counter and our running back broke off for an 80-yard run and you just hear the crowd explode,” Frost said.

Of course, football also has a way of delivering moments no one expects.

“Watching one of our corners get hurdled,” Frost said, recalling the craziest thing he’s witnessed during a game.

Away from football, Frost enjoys a quieter pace. Math is his favorite subject, and he credits Mrs. McWilliams as his favorite teacher. When he isn’t at practice or school, he can usually be found playing video games or heading to Spaulding Park in Muskogee to play pickleball with friends.

The lessons he’s learned through athletics have reached well beyond the football field.

“Athletics has taught me discipline and hard work,” Frost said.

Even outside the season, Frost continues giving back to the Hilldale athletic program by helping coaches during powerlifting and track meets. It’s another example of the team-first mentality he has developed throughout his career, one that he’ll carry with him long after his final Friday night under the lights.