Two of Stillwater’s most prized athletes, senior Trevor Tillett and junior Zach Knox, have impressed the student body, community and even the nation with their talents in football.

 Tillett, measuring up to 6’1” and weighing in at 175 pounds, plays quarterback for the varsity football team.  Knox, at 5’10’’ and 175 pounds, is the one of the team’s most valuable runningbacks.  These two players may differ in some ways regarding gameplay or preparation, but they are united by the common goal of a successful season.

 When it comes to physical and mental preparation for game day, each athlete takes his own unique approach.

 “I make sure to maintain the same general daily routine I have on a game day,” said Tillett.  “I go home and watch game film on my opponent and eat something small but filling.  It’s important to envision myself doing things in the game that I’ve practiced all week long.”

Knox, however, prepares by, “drinking lots of water, eating nutritious food and getting plenty of sleep all week.”  On game day, he will mentally get pumped by, “listening to music and playing Madden 25.”

 Getting started in football, however, is a similar story for both players.

 “Playing sports is something I started as soon as I could walk,” said Tillett, “but there was always something special about football.  The work, the time and the relationships built are just a few things that make the sport so special.”

 “I’ve loved the game of football for as long as I can remember,” Knox said.  “Playing high school football was a decision made long before I came to the high school.  The reason is simply because I love the game.”

 Both Tillett and Knox agree that fan support is one of the key components to a winning team.

 “There is nothing better than the support we receive from our Pony Nation,” Tillett said.  “Knowing how many people we have behind us is a special thing that not every team can say they have.”

 Football appears to be in both their futures.

 “I plan to advance in football to the highest level that I can personally play,” said Knox.  “It’s one of my greatest passions in life and I’d like to play as much as I can.”

 Regarding future Ponies, “there’s nothing more valuable than hard work,” Tillett said.  “Anything in sports can be achieved through a great work ethic.”

 Determination and commitment are two characteristics that really embody Tillett and Knox.  With a passion for the sport, they bring excitement and challenge to the football field.