On the football field and basketball court, Sandburg senior Gyneen Ali is a strong leader.
“It’s a cliche to say this, but she’s like having another coach on the field,” Eagles flag football coach Peter Fefles said.
Off the field, Ali has developed into being a strong listener. She has volunteered at Northwestern Medicine Palos Hospital and her listening skills come into play.
“This year, I was able to talk to patients and help them out for what they needed,” Ali said. “Some of them just wanted someone to talk to. I was company for them. …
“It can get pretty lonely there for them. They get excited to have someone to talk to.”
Ali wants to break into the medical profession, but first there is some athletic business to take care of, including leading the Eagles to a turnaround of last year’s 4-10 mark.
The Eagles opened this week at 3-1. They had an 8-0 lead over Joliet West after the first quarter on Aug. 31 in Orland Park before the game was postponed by lightning. They had two more games postponed because of hot and humid weather conditions.
The sample size is small, but it’s enough for Ali to be optimistic about the season.
“I think this is going to be an awesome year,” she said. “We have phenomenal players — we have seven starters back. We all play together and have fun together.”
Earlier in the year, the wide receiver/defensive back was named one of the Chicago Bears 2026 Community High School All-Stars.
She attended a Bears draft party and met running backs Kyle Monangai and D’Andre Swift.
It’s an honor that recognizes work ethic, selflessness and generosity as she racked up more than 192 hours of community service during her high school years.
“I love the ability to help someone and provide care,” Ali said. “I want to have that perspective of knowing what they are going through and being able to change that.”
She said her dream scenario is to go to Northwestern. But finding a college where she can start her studies in the medical field and would allow her to play football or basketball is still on the table.
Her high school career is something she does not want to take for granted, especially since she missed a chunk of the 2025 season with a concussion.
“This is my last year and I want to cherish every moment,” she said. “I want us to get as far as we can into the playoffs.”
Fefles said that could happen with a player such as Ali providing the leadership.
“She’s an awesome kid,” he said. “She’s a big part of what we do offensively and defensively.
“She takes her assignments to heart. She knows exactly what we’re trying to do and accomplishes it.”