Sammi Cenek’s story is one of grit, loyalty, and the kind of quiet toughness that defines true Redbird greatness. A Peoria standout who grew up dreaming of being a D1 soccer player, Sammi committed early. She stayed through coaching turnover, culture shifts, and adversity, and became one of the most reliable anchors in the program. Her journey is a masterclass in trusting the process and believing in the place you call home.

Moreover, as a sophomore, Sammi’s season was cut short by a broken foot in the first match against Indiana. The moment could have derailed her momentum and confidence. Instead, it became the turning point. She rebuilt, refocused, and returned stronger, emerging as a leader who set the tone for locker room and the sideline.

Now in her fifth year, Sammi represents everything Bird Fans 4 Ever celebrates: commitment, character, and competitive fire. She’s played under different systems, adapted to new expectations, and remained the heartbeat of Redbird soccer. Her super‑senior season is more than a final chapter — it’s a legacy.

Bird Fans 4 Ever sits down with Illinois State University Athletics Director Dr. Jeri Beggs for a wide‑ranging conversation about the present and future of Redbird athletics. Dr. Beggs shares insight into her leadership approach, the evolving landscape of college sports, and the strategic priorities shaping ISU’s. From facility upgrades to student‑athlete support to the heartbeat of Redbird Nation, this episode gives fans a front‑row seat to how decisions are made at the highest level.

Whether you’re a longtime supporter or a new member of the flock, this conversation offers a rare look behind the scenes with one of the most influential voices in ISU athletics.

🏀 BirdFans4Ever Podcast – Episode 88 | Noah Cleveland The hometown kid is home.

In Episode 88 of the BirdFans4Ever Podcast, we sit down with Illinois State’s newest Redbird, Noah Cleveland, the talented transfer from Illinois Wesleyan, to hear one of the most unique recruiting journeys you’ll ever hear.

Noah shares: 🔴 His incredible path to IWU and from Illinois Wesleyan to Illinois State. 🏡 What it means to represent his hometown as a Redbird. 🏀 A breakdown of his game and what ISU fans can expect from him this season. 🎯 His goals for the upcoming year and why he believes this team has the pieces to do something special. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👧 Talks how his athletic family has influenced him ⛳ And, of course… we uncover the team’s best (and worst!) golfers, plus some fun behind-the-scenes stories that Redbird fans won’t want to miss.

If you’re excited about the future of Illinois State Basketball, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 🎙️ Subscribe to BirdFans4Ever for exclusive interviews with current players, coaches, alumni, and the people who make Redbird athletics special. 🔔 Like, comment, and subscribe so you never miss an episode. #BirdFans4Ever #IllinoisState #RedbirdBasketball #GoRedbirds #MVC #CollegeBasketball #NoahCleveland #ISUBasketball

Kathy Schniedwind is a true trailblazer in Illinois State Athletics. As the first female athletic trainer in ISU history, she spent more than three decades shaping the health, recovery, and performance of Redbird student‑athletes. From working alongside legendary coaches to mentoring future trainers, Kathy’s impact reaches far beyond the sidelines.

Her dedication, compassion, and professionalism helped define sports medicine at Illinois State—and her legacy was cemented with her induction into the Percy Family Hall of Fame.

In this episode, we sit down with Kathy to explore her journey, the athletes she’s supported, the challenges she overcame, and the lasting mark she left on generations of Redbirds.

Pat Gregory has been a cornerstone of Illinois State Athletics Strength and condition in 1980’s. Coach Gregory’s unwavering dedication, steady leadership, and genuine commitment to helping others succeed. Whether it was in weight room, or running through Normal, Coach Gregory’s presence has always meant guidance, growth, and heart.

In this episode of BirdFans4Ever, we sit down with Pat to reflect on his journey, the athletes he’s impacted, and the Strength and condition legacy he’s built within the ISU Athletics. It’s a conversation filled with insight, gratitude, and funny Redbird stories.

🎙️ Episode 85 of the Bird Fans 4 Ever Podcast is now available!

We're joined by Illinois State women's basketball great Ellen McGrew. A two-time Laurie Mabry Award winner, All-Gateway Conference selection, and member of the historic 1989 Redbird team that remains the only ISU women's team to win an NCAA Tournament game, Ellen shares stories from her outstanding career in Normal.

We discuss her path to Illinois State, her playing days under Jill Hutchison, and the lifelong impact of being a Redbird.

🔴🐦 Listen now!

#BirdFans4Ever #ISUWBB #BackTheBirds #RedbirdNation

Tonight on Bird Fans 4 Ever, we’re talking Illinois State basketball and the changing landscape surrounding Redbird hoops with Brennan White from Illinois State University and Jason Higdon from Empower The Nest. We’ll discuss NIL, roster building, player retention, recruiting, and what the future looks like for Illinois State basketball as college athletics continues to evolve. From behind-the-scenes support for student-athletes to the challenges facing mid-major basketball programs in today’s environment, this is a conversation Redbird basketball fans won’t want to miss.

Please welcome Brennan White and Jason Higdon from Empower The Nest to Bird Fans 4 Ever!

NEW EPISODE ALERT – Birdfans4ever
Episode 83 is LIVE and you don’t want to miss this one!
We sit down with QB Tommy Rittenhouse and WR Daniel Sobkowiscz — two of the key offensive playmakers who helped lead the Redbirds on their incredible run to the FCS Championship Game.
From their journeys to Illinois State to breaking down the unforgettable 2025 season, these teammates share it all:
How they found their way to ISU
Behind-the-scenes stories from a championship-caliber season
Their perspectives on the biggest games and clutch moments
What it felt like to compete on the national stage
A sneak peek at what’s next for both of them
This is a must-listen for any Redbird fan who wants the inside story straight from the guys who lived it.
Tune in now and relive the run!
#Birdfans4ever #RedbirdFootball #FCS #CollegeFootball #Podcast #BehindTheScenes #RoadToTheChampionship