Building a Lasting Legacy: Yousif’s Journey from Player to Leader

Yousif is a rising junior and student-athlete at Great Valley High School with a deep passion for football that has only grown since entering high school. What began as a love for the sport has evolved into a desire to use football as a way to connect with others, build community, and give back. After playing for several years, Yousif now feels ready to share his experience and enthusiasm with the next generation of athletes.

Last year, Yousif participated in Sow Good Now’s annual Football GiveBack, where he and his teammates worked with youth in the community, teaching football skills and encouraging them to believe in themselves. The event left a lasting impression on him. Inspired by the impact he saw firsthand—and recognizing a leadership gap after many seniors graduated—he decided to step up. Yousif reached out directly to Mary Fischer-Nassib, Sow Good Now’s founder and CEO, to ask about taking on a bigger role in this year’s event. His initiative and drive spoke volumes about his character and commitment to service.

Already, Yousif’s leadership has led to meaningful partnerships. He secured support from Seasons Pizza in Malvern, who will be generously donating a pizza lunch for the kids, and he is building a relationship with GVFL, Great Valley’s local youth football league. With the help of his teammates, he has organized a day that not only features football skills and drills but also opens important conversations around mental health, food insecurity, and philanthropy—helping young people understand the game as more than just a sport, but as a pathway to teamwork, resilience, and giving back.

When asked what it means to create a lasting legacy at his high school, Yousif shared: “To play a role in building an inclusive community that lasts not only in the school, but in people’s character.” This perspective drives the way he approaches both sports and service. Alongside fellow Sow Good Now leader Mili Dandrea, he has been empowering other student-athletes, especially Spanish-speaking students, to feel included and confident in pursuing sports. His leadership is helping to create a culture of diversity, support, and community-minded action within Great Valley athletics.

Thanks to student leaders like Yousif, Sow Good Now continues to expand its reach, deepen its impact, and inspire others to lead with service. We are incredibly grateful for Yousif’s vision, determination, and heart—and we can’t wait to see the many ways he will continue to shine both on and off the field.