In the late 1990's, linebacker Frost Hubbard was at the center of Bobcat football's resurgence. A fierce competitor who combined toughness with intelligence on the field, Hubbard set a standard that future players, whether as defenders on the field or as leaders in the locker room, will have to live up to.

Hubbard began his career in 1996 by piling up 102 tackles, his highest career total, although it was the only time he didn't lead the Bobcats. He also recorded two of his three career interceptions and caught a short touchdown pass as a fullback in a goal-line situation. Coaches in the NESCAC recognized the player Hubbard would develop into, voting him conference Defensive Rookie of the Year. As a sophomore, Hubbard just missed reaching the century mark in tackles with 99. His second career pass reception set up a touchdown after a fake punt against Colby. Bates' 22-21 victory was the first of three in a row Hubbard and teammates would enjoy over the White Mules.

The team's defensive MVP in 1998, Hubbard recorded 92 tackles, including a career-high 59 solo stops. Among his impressive performances was a 20-tackle game against Williams that season. Hubbard was also recognized for his work off the field in his junior campaign, earning GTE/CoSIDA Academic All-District first-team honors. With Hubbard as a co-captain in 1999, the Bobcats went 4-4 and won the CBB title for their most successful season since 1982. The quality of the entire team that year was reflected in his career-low total of  69 tackles, but Hubbard's value was recognized by opposing coaches, who named him to his first All-NESCAC and All-ECAC teams. The New England Football Writers also recognized Hubbard by selecting him to the Division II-III All-New England squad. He also repeated as an Academic All-District selection. Hubbard ended his career with 362 tackles, second on Bates' all-time list behind Mike Holte '97.