Coach Q is known by many as a lifelong athlete. At a young age he was ranked the nation’s best High School Hurdler by Track & Field News in 1988. He finished first at the 110m high hurdles Golden West Invitational. He is also a two time state team champion in track and field. He is a six-time PIAA AA State champion in the 110m high hurdles, 300m intermediate hurdles, and 4x100. He is a two-time PIAA AA silver medalist in the 4x400, as well as a bronze medalist in the 110m high hurdles. He is a four time PIAA District II team champion, and 12 time PIAA District II champion. He also earned two WVC Team Conference Championships.

As a member of the football team, he is a two time All-Scholastic selection as a wide receiver and defensive back. He was inducted into the PIAA Coaches Association Hall of Fame. He was named the 1988 Athlete of the Year by the Citizens' Voice and the Times Leader.

Qadry was drafted in the second round to the NFL by the Minnesota Vikings. With the Baltimore Ravens in 1999, he led the team with 68 catches, 1,105 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns, including career-high 258 yards in one game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. What might have been the high-water mark of Ismail's career and potential crowning moment came on January 28, 2001, when the Baltimore Ravens defeated the New York Giants 34-7 in Tampa, Florida in Super Bowl XXXV. Ismail caught a 47-yard reception and earned his first Super Bowl ring. The next year, his final season in Baltimore, Ismail had his best season, leading the Ravens with 74 receptions and 7 touchdowns, both career-highs.