Eastern Michigan Athletics
2024 Fall Camp Update: Joey Zelinsky - A Journey of Resilience
8/1/2024 2:32:00 PM | Football
The Cressona, Pa., native is a testament to resilience and determination
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Chris_Creighton Video Interview | Joey_Zelinsky Video Interview
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) — As the Eastern Michigan University football team embarked on the first day of fall camp, senior defensive lineman Joey Zelinsky (Cressona, Pa./Blue Mountain/Hudson Valley CC) stood out not only for his performance on the field but for the remarkable journey that brought him here. Zelinsky, a testament to resilience and determination, reflects on how his time at EMU has shaped him and what lies ahead for the 2024 season.
Finding Comfort and Confidence
"Think back, you've had this camp a few years now. How is 2024 different than the last couple that you've been a part of this Eastern Michigan family?" Zelinsky pondered. "I feel like I'm more comfortable, me specifically in the program. You know, having two other fall camps under my belt, it's been great. You know, first day came out flying around a whole bunch of guys. I feel like there's a new energy."
This energy is fueled by a blend of experience and youth, with EMU ranking 10th in the nation for new faces on the team. For Zelinsky, setting the standard is crucial. "It's the first day, so you've got to set the example. A lot of old guys are coming out here trying to set the standard, being vocal, flying around, giving 100% every play."
Building a Cohesive Defensive Line
Zelinsky's comfort extends to his role on the defensive line, where continuity under Defensive Coordinator Ben Needham has bolstered his confidence. "In our defensive line room, we have a lot more confidence. That's one thing Coach Kasey Teegardin really instilled in us—he believes in us. He wants us to go out there and play, not be afraid to mess up because we're going to hit the film room."
This approach has been transformative for Zelinsky. "Coach Teegardin has been the same guy every single day, but at the same time, he'll be one of the hardest coaches on you. He never changes, and he'll be your best friend right after. He's helped me out a lot with my confidence. I feel more comfortable out there, flying around with him watching over me."
Leadership and Progression
Zelinsky's journey from a summer arrival without a scholarship to a senior leader is a testament to his perseverance. "I feel like I've become a leader on the defensive line. Play-wise, I'm way more comfortable. I'm going out there to make a play every single time, but also do my job."
His leadership extends beyond his own performance, as he recognizes emerging talents in his teammates. "My lifting partners, Cole Snyder (Lakewood, N.Y./Southwestern/Rutgers/Buffalo) and JT Killen (Lake Wylie, S.C./Charlotte Christian School/Coastal Carolina) are two transfer guys I really admire. They come here to a new program, being leaders on offense and defense. They bring a lunch pail mentality, and it's carrying over into camp."
Embracing the "BET" Mentality
The theme of the year, "BET," resonates deeply with Zelinsky. "When I think about 'BET,' you couldn't put it more perfectly. We were on the highest of highs last season, one of the best teams in Eastern Michigan history, and then we kind of had a letdown year. We're always doubted, no matter what we do."
This doubt fuels Zelinsky's determination. "I hate being doubted. With my background, I see a whole bunch of hungry guys now, and we can't wait to show them."
A Journey of Personal Triumph
Zelinsky's story is not just about football; it's about personal triumph. "I had a 1.3 GPA in high school. Coaches and guidance counselors said I couldn't do it. I went to JUCO, got evicted, wrote a handwritten letter to get here, and I told them if I didn't earn a scholarship in six months, I'd be back home working construction."
His perseverance paid off, transforming his academic journey. "I'm a first-generation college student. Seeing my parents' faces when I graduated was incredible. Now I'm getting my master's. There were dark times where I thought I wouldn't be here, but every day is a blessing."
Chris_Creighton Video Interview | Joey_Zelinsky Video Interview
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) — As the Eastern Michigan University football team embarked on the first day of fall camp, senior defensive lineman Joey Zelinsky (Cressona, Pa./Blue Mountain/Hudson Valley CC) stood out not only for his performance on the field but for the remarkable journey that brought him here. Zelinsky, a testament to resilience and determination, reflects on how his time at EMU has shaped him and what lies ahead for the 2024 season.
Finding Comfort and Confidence
"Think back, you've had this camp a few years now. How is 2024 different than the last couple that you've been a part of this Eastern Michigan family?" Zelinsky pondered. "I feel like I'm more comfortable, me specifically in the program. You know, having two other fall camps under my belt, it's been great. You know, first day came out flying around a whole bunch of guys. I feel like there's a new energy."
This energy is fueled by a blend of experience and youth, with EMU ranking 10th in the nation for new faces on the team. For Zelinsky, setting the standard is crucial. "It's the first day, so you've got to set the example. A lot of old guys are coming out here trying to set the standard, being vocal, flying around, giving 100% every play."
Building a Cohesive Defensive Line
Zelinsky's comfort extends to his role on the defensive line, where continuity under Defensive Coordinator Ben Needham has bolstered his confidence. "In our defensive line room, we have a lot more confidence. That's one thing Coach Kasey Teegardin really instilled in us—he believes in us. He wants us to go out there and play, not be afraid to mess up because we're going to hit the film room."
This approach has been transformative for Zelinsky. "Coach Teegardin has been the same guy every single day, but at the same time, he'll be one of the hardest coaches on you. He never changes, and he'll be your best friend right after. He's helped me out a lot with my confidence. I feel more comfortable out there, flying around with him watching over me."
Leadership and Progression
Zelinsky's journey from a summer arrival without a scholarship to a senior leader is a testament to his perseverance. "I feel like I've become a leader on the defensive line. Play-wise, I'm way more comfortable. I'm going out there to make a play every single time, but also do my job."
His leadership extends beyond his own performance, as he recognizes emerging talents in his teammates. "My lifting partners, Cole Snyder (Lakewood, N.Y./Southwestern/Rutgers/Buffalo) and JT Killen (Lake Wylie, S.C./Charlotte Christian School/Coastal Carolina) are two transfer guys I really admire. They come here to a new program, being leaders on offense and defense. They bring a lunch pail mentality, and it's carrying over into camp."
Embracing the "BET" Mentality
The theme of the year, "BET," resonates deeply with Zelinsky. "When I think about 'BET,' you couldn't put it more perfectly. We were on the highest of highs last season, one of the best teams in Eastern Michigan history, and then we kind of had a letdown year. We're always doubted, no matter what we do."
This doubt fuels Zelinsky's determination. "I hate being doubted. With my background, I see a whole bunch of hungry guys now, and we can't wait to show them."
A Journey of Personal Triumph
Zelinsky's story is not just about football; it's about personal triumph. "I had a 1.3 GPA in high school. Coaches and guidance counselors said I couldn't do it. I went to JUCO, got evicted, wrote a handwritten letter to get here, and I told them if I didn't earn a scholarship in six months, I'd be back home working construction."
His perseverance paid off, transforming his academic journey. "I'm a first-generation college student. Seeing my parents' faces when I graduated was incredible. Now I'm getting my master's. There were dark times where I thought I wouldn't be here, but every day is a blessing."
Season Ticket Information
- Ultimate Fan Season Tickets: $180 for chairback seats on the 50-yard line, with VIP parking.
- Reserved Season Tickets: $120.
- General Admission Season Tickets: $108.
- Faculty, Staff, and Young Alumni Season Tickets: $84.
- E-Club Membership: $200, includes season tickets for football, men's basketball, and women's basketball games.
- Alumni Season Value Pack: $240 for four tickets per game.
- VIP Parking: $60 at the George Gervin GameAbove Center parking lot.
For more information or to purchase tickets, fans can contact the Eastern Athletics Ticket Office at 734.487.3669.
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