Blake Maxwell is used to battling in the trenches.

As an offensive guard for the Weatherford Kangaroos, No. 58 often is the guy the team’s star running back and quarterback follows through the chaos.

Of course, manhandling opposing defensive tackles and linebackers is child’s play compared to the responsibility this young man carries on his broad shoulders every day.

Maxwell is a special kid for what he does on the field for sure, but it’s his effort off the field that makes him our Unsung Hero Award winner presented by Texas Farm Bureau Insurance.

His parents both have disabilities and at times have had trouble making ends meet. Fortunately, Blake's maturity is beyond his years and really comes in handy around the house and in his community.

 “In the United States of America, we operate under the belief that through hard work and determination we can overcome our circumstances and improve our situation. Blake Maxwell is the perfect embodiment of this idea and mentality,” Weatherford head coach Billy Mathis explains.

“I have had the privilege of working with Blake for the last three years and have watched as he has persevered and overcome injuries and hardships to become a starter on our offensive line. In the time that I have known Blake, he has worked harder than any individual I can remember.  As hard and difficult as things were at times for Blake due to injuries and circumstances, I have never heard him complain or use his difficulties as a crutch.  Because of his positive attitude and impressive work ethic, Blake is universally admired and respected by his teammates and coaches and is a leader on our football team. He is definitely the definition of an unsung hero!”

Blake isn’t your prototype pile driver on the offensive line since he weighs in at around 240 pounds. But he can bench press a pick-up truck so he has little problems pushing around opponents.

“Blake doesn’t like me bragging about him but I’m his dad so he’s going to have to deal with it,” Nei Maxwell said with a laugh. “He’s a special kid on the field and off the field. He doesn’t everything the right way and his mom and I couldn’t be more proud of the man he’s become.”

Regardless of what the future holds for any collegiate football plans, Blake plans to pursue a healthcare career. His mom is a double amputee after complications due to diabetes and helping her has inspired him to help others.

“Coach Mathis and this entire town rallies behind Blake and we’re very appreciative of that,” Neil says.