For the fifth straight year, the National Football League‘s Chicago Bears are awarding student-athletes the team’s prestigious Community High School All-Star Award. The award highlights student-athletes who make meaningful contributions to their communities.
In partnership with Athletico Physical Therapy, the Bears established this initiative to recognize high school tackle football and girls flag football players who use their leadership and teamwork skills to create a positive impact during the offseason. By celebrating these young leaders, the Bears aim to inspire future generations to carry these values forward, both on and off the field.
Each winner receives a custom hand-painted football, a gift bag and an invitation to a future Chicago Bears event. Additionally, the Chicago Bears will donate $500 to a charitable organization of the honoree’s choosing.
Below are the weekly winners along with information on each winner from a team news release.
Week 1 – Yolanda Barrera, Julius Sterling Morton East HS
Yolanda’s leadership comes naturally in every aspect of her life. On the field, she leads by example, demonstrating discipline, teamwork and determination. She plays with intensity and heart, always striving to bring out the best in herself and her teammates in girls flag football. During the 2024 season, she was named team captain, guiding her team through a competitive season that culminated in their first-ever playoff appearance. This marked an impressive run in their inaugural season, as they won the regional championship before falling short in sectionals against Lane Tech College Prep High School, the defending champions at the time. Despite facing injuries throughout the season, Yolanda remained resilient, using each challenge as motivation to push her teammates and herself forward.
Due to her relentless effort and defensive skills, Yolanda earned her team’s Defensive Player of the Year and Most Valuable Player (MVP) honors. Additionally, she received Honorable Mention recognition during the All-State team dinner at Halas Hall, where the Chicago Bears recognized top girls flag football players in Illinois for the 2024 season.
Yolanda’s leadership extends far beyond the field. During the offseason, she dedicates three days a week to coaching youth flag football for children ages 8 to 10, instilling in them the same values that have shaped her own journey, including hard work, perseverance and respect. She takes pride in mentoring young athletes, ensuring they develop confidence both on and off the field. Her influence on the next generation of players reflects her deep commitment to giving back to the sport that has given her so much.
Outside of athletics, Yolanda is a dedicated student and community leader. She balances a demanding academic schedule with her athletic commitments, earning the West Suburban Conference Academic Achievement Award for excelling in the classroom.
She also spends her summers volunteering at local nursing homes, taking care of residents and bringing them joy through conversation and engagement.
Her ability to connect with people, whether through sports or service, leaves a lasting impact. She leads by example, showing that passion and perseverance can shape every part of life.
The Chicago Bears proudly name Yolanda Barrera, a senior at Morton East HS, as the first 2025 Community High School All-Star! This award recognizes football and girls flag football players who make a positive impact within their communities. pic.twitter.com/c0G5KV4U7S
— Chicago Bears (@BearsOutreach) February 28, 2025
Week 2 – Nicholas Ohanian, Fenton Community HS
Nominated by his school peers, Nicholas has made the most of his time at Fenton, excelling in the classroom, on the field and in the community. A dedicated multi-sport athlete, he has competed in both football and wrestling, bringing the same determination and discipline to each. As a running back and linebacker, he played a key role in helping Fenton achieve a winning regular season and qualify for the playoffs for the first time since 2013.
Academically, he ranks among the top students in his class with a 3.8 GPA and is a member of the National Honor Society, a nationwide organization in the United States that recognizes high school students for their excellence in scholarship, leadership, service and character. Beyond the classroom, he has dedicated 63 hours to community service, taking on roles that help others find their way.
“Nicholas has demonstrated resilience and leadership in the face of challenges,” said a Fenton High School staff member. “His ability to excel academically while balancing the demands of athletics and community service is a testament to his strong work ethic and time management skills. His academic success, community involvement, and exceptional character make him a deserving recipient of the Chicago Bears Community High School All-Star honor.”
Nicholas leads in ways that often go unnoticed. As a freshman mentor, he has helped younger students navigate their transition into high school. He also played an active role in Fenton’s middle school athletics and activity fair, encouraging students to explore new opportunities. His leadership was further recognized when he was selected to serve on the hiring committee for Fenton’s new football coach, a responsibility that reflects the trust and respect he has earned within his school community.
His coaches describe him as the kind of teammate who steps up when something needs to get done, not because he’s asked, but because he knows it helps the team. Whether it’s volunteering at the concession stand, assisting with team logistics, or ensuring things run smoothly behind the scenes, Nicholas is someone his teammates and coaches can always count on.
Due to his selfless efforts, his dedication and sportsmanship were recognized when he was awarded the Brandon Burlsworth Character Award, given to student-athletes who lead with integrity and give their all to their sport. His coaches also selected him for the Bob Ciancio Leadership & Dedication Award, an honor that speaks to his commitment, perseverance and the example he sets for his teammates.
Balancing school, sports and community service is not an easy task, but Nicholas has handled it with the same focus and effort that have earned him respect throughout his school community.
The Chicago Bears are proud to announce Nicholas Ohanian, a senior at Fenton Community High School in Bensenville, Ill., as the second recipient of the 2025 Community High School All-Star Award! pic.twitter.com/imBWc4P19R
— Chicago Bears (@BearsOutreach) March 6, 2025
Week 3 – Sana Musa, Nicholas Senn HS
Sana, an immigrant from Sudan, moved to the United States at a young age, quickly adapting to a new environment by embracing opportunities to create meaningful connections and positive impacts. She became an active leader in Senn’s Black Student Union, where she has helped organize Black History Month celebrations that bring students together to share and honor their culture, history and unity through education and storytelling.
Wanting to further highlight cultural expression in her school, Sana became involved with Senn’s Afro Dance Club, where she found a creative way to lead a group of students through dance, showcasing the beauty and depth of African culture. The event created a strong sense of community and pride, as students and faculty came together to celebrate their shared experiences and traditions.
Sana’s commitment to growth extends beyond leadership and service, she is also an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma candidate, a distinction earned by students who take on one of the most rigorous academic programs in the world. The IB curriculum challenges students to excel in critical thinking, global awareness and independent research, all while maintaining high academic standards across multiple disciplines. As someone who once navigated a new country and culture, she has embraced the IB program’s emphasis on inquiry, adaptability and a global perspective, applying these skills to both her education and her efforts to uplift those around her.
Sana is also a multi-sport athlete who initially played basketball before discovering a passion for girls flag football. The sport provided her with a strong sense of belonging, while also allowing her to develop key skills in teamwork, communication and leadership. During the 2024 season, she was named team captain, leading her team to a successful 10-4 regular season record.
This accomplishment secured their first playoff appearance in school history, marking a significant milestone as the team progressed from a 0-5 record in their inaugural season just a year prior.
Beyond athletics and academics, Sana has made a lasting impact through volunteer work. She has given back to organizations that once supported her, including RefugeeOne, where she helps newly arrived families adjust to life in the U.S. She has also contributed her time to Cradles to Crayons, providing school supplies for children, and The Salvation Army, assisting with clothing donations for families in need. Her service extends to meal preparation and aid distribution for communities affected by natural disasters.
Balancing the demands of a rigorous academic program, leading her teammates in girls flag football and dedicated community service, Sana continues to lead by example, showing that with passion and perseverance, making an impact in every aspect of life is possible.
The Chicago Bears proudly announce Sana Musa, a senior at Nicholas Senn High School in Chicago, Ill., as the third recipient of the 2025 Community High School All-Star Award. Congratulations Sana! #ThisIsHSFootball pic.twitter.com/SgEUE4gkDr
— Chicago Bears (@BearsOutreach) March 13, 2025
Week 4 – Allen Wiesner, Round Lake HS
Allen was selected for his commitment to his team and community. His coaches highlighted his leadership, work ethic and willingness to support those around him. Throughout multiple coaching transitions, two winless seasons and significant program challenges, he remained engaged, ensuring his teammates felt supported. His coaches recognized him not only for his effort and reliability but also for his contributions beyond the field, where he regularly volunteered to mentor younger athletes and assist with school initiatives.
He began high school football as a freshman with limited experience and conditioning, but over four years, he became a two-way starter and team captain. His coaches recalled that, as a senior, he completed his own drills and then returned to run alongside younger players who were struggling, helping them adjust to the physical and mental demands of the program. His participation extended beyond the regular season, as he was actively involved in offseason conditioning, strength training and summer camps, maintaining near-perfect attendance throughout his high school career. His involvement in the program led to him being selected to serve on the hiring committee for the school’s new football coach, a reflection of the respect he earned from coaches and teammates
In the classroom, Allen’s teachers described him as a student who demonstrated steady academic progress, particularly in subjects where he initially lacked confidence. His sophomore-year math teacher noted that he struggled early in the course but showed persistence, regularly seeking help and ultimately improving his performance. His engagement extended into school leadership, where he volunteered to introduce incoming students to school programs, worked concessions at sporting events and assisted with school-wide activities. Coaches and staff recognized him as someone who stepped up to help wherever needed, even in roles that often go unnoticed.
Allen’s commitment to his community was equally impactful. He worked with the Round Lake Spartans junior football program, mentoring younger athletes and volunteered at summer youth football camps during his four years of high school. He also participated in the Round Lake Fire Department’s toy drive for families in need and assisted with clean-up efforts for the Grayslake Fair as part of the school’s fishing team. His coaches described him as a student-athlete who consistently dedicated his time to supporting those around him, whether through athletics, school, or community service.
The Chicago Bears proudly announce Allan Wiesner, a senior at Round Lake High School in Round Lake, Ill., as the fourth recipient of the 2025 Community High School All-Star Award. Congratulations Allan! #ThisIsHSFootball pic.twitter.com/UGLyg1fw23
— Chicago Bears (@BearsOutreach) March 20, 2025
Week 5 – Amelia Fernandez, Maine South HS
Amelia is a standout athlete, excelling in flag football and basketball, where she has played varsity for both teams over the past two seasons, an accomplishment no other athlete at Maine South has achieved. She finished this past season with 65 receptions, 994 yards and 17 touchdowns, ranking 14th in the state for receiving. Her contributions helped both her flag football and basketball teams earn No. 1 rankings in Illinois for a significant part of the 2024 season.
The Maine South flag football team had a 23-2 regular season record and finished 10-1 in conference, marking an impressive second-year performance since the team’s inception. While the team’s journey ended with a tough loss to Evanston High School in the IHSA Regional Finals, Amelia’s leadership and athleticism were central to the team’s success. Additionally, her determination was crucial in helping Maine South earn a spot in the National NFL Flag Championship this summer after their victory in the NFL Flag Chicago Bears Regional Tournament. Amelia’s influence reaches far beyond athletics. A natural leader, she recognized the responsibility that comes with being a student-athlete and suggested that the flag football team adopt a community charity. Her leadership led the team to partner with The Good Food Pantry, organizing a highly successful food drive on Senior Night and creating an Instagram video to raise awareness for food donations.
Amelia’s peers recognized her leadership qualities by voting her team captain, a role she embraced wholeheartedly. She took on the responsibility of mentoring younger teammates, guiding them through the sport with patience and encouragement. Despite personal challenges, including her grandmother’s illness, Amelia continued to demonstrate resilience and dedication, culminating in an outstanding Senior Night performance against Fremd High School, the eventual state champions. Amelia scored three touchdowns, recorded an interception and delivered a key performance in the playoffs.
Academically, Amelia is equally impressive. She maintains an unweighted GPA of 3.91 while taking a challenging course load of AP and accelerated classes. Amelia’s ability to excel in academics, leadership and sports highlights her remarkable balance and work ethic.
The Chicago Bears proudly announce Amelia Fernandez, a junior at Maine South High School in Park Ridge, Ill., as the fifth recipient of the 2025 Community High School All-Star Award! #ThisIsHSFootball pic.twitter.com/3wxTu4RWuA
— Chicago Bears (@BearsOutreach) March 27, 2025
