For this week’s Wildcat of the Week feature, we sat down with Ali Nasib, an offensive lineman for the West Chicago Wildcats varsity football team. Ali shared some insights about his journey, inspirations, and the balance between sports and academics.
Q: What has been your favorite moment so far playing for the West Chicago Wildcats varsity team?
Ali: My favorite moment so far has to be making the playoffs last year. It was the first time in 20 years that our team made it, and that was a huge accomplishment for us.
Q: How do you get mentally prepared before a big game? Any pre-game rituals or songs you listen to?
Ali: Every Friday, I listen to music all day, more than usual. I start with calm music during school, but as game time gets closer, I switch to more upbeat and hype music to get in the zone.
Q: Who has been your biggest inspiration on and off the field, and why?
Ali: Off the field, my biggest inspiration is my dad. He’s the reason I fell in love with the sport, always pushing me to be the best version of myself. On the field, it’s my coaches. They constantly make sure I’m improving and having fun while doing what I love.
Q: What position do you play, and what do you enjoy most about it?
Ali: I play offensive lineman, specifically as a guard. What I enjoy most is knowing that I have a big impact on the team, especially with how much we run the ball. We may not get a lot of recognition, but we know how much effort we put into our offense, and we understand that the game depends on what we do out there.
Q: When you’re not playing football, what’s your go-to hobby or way to unwind?
Ali: I love playing basketball when I’m not on the football field. It’s another sport I grew up with, and it’s a great way to relax and have fun.
Q: If you could have dinner with any professional athlete, who would it be and what would you ask them?
Ali: I would love to have dinner with Trent Williams, the 49ers’ left tackle. I’d ask him how he managed to overcome cancer and still play at such a high level in the NFL, being named first-team All-Pro twice and making it to the Pro Bowl ten times.
Q: What’s your favorite part about being a student-athlete at West Chicago Community High School?
Ali: The best part is the supportive environment. Even though we’ve had some tough seasons, like being 1-8 in the past, everyone is still on our side, rooting for us and showing support.
Q: How do you balance schoolwork with your football schedule? Any tips for staying organized?
Ali: Balancing both can be challenging, but I try to get as much done as possible during school hours. That way, I have less to do when I get home. Time management is key.
Q: Do you have any game-day superstitions or items you can’t play without?
Ali: No superstitions for me, but I definitely rely on my music to get in the right headspace before every game.
Q: What advice would you give to younger athletes who want to play varsity football someday?
Ali: My advice would be to keep working hard but also remember to have fun along the way. It’s important to enjoy the process as much as the game itself.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from West Chicago Community High School athletes!