Rick Karcher Faculty Athletic Representative | Eastern Michigan Athletics Website
Rick Karcher Faculty Athletic Representative | Eastern Michigan Athletics Website
The Eastern Michigan University (EMU) football team commenced its fall camp under clear skies at Rynearson Stadium. Head Coach Chris Creighton expressed optimism regarding the initial practice and the upcoming season.
"Day one was fantastic," Creighton stated. "We've got 119 guys that want to be here, want to get better, and are really coming together." He highlighted the team's unity and eagerness, noting that the positive energy began with productive meetings the previous night and continued into the morning's practice.
Transitioning from summer workouts to actual football activities posed challenges. "Our strength staff is an A-plus. They're excellent at what they do," Creighton praised. "But now you're playing football. You can't simulate that." With only 16 periods of practice scheduled for the day, emphasis was placed on acclimating players to the physical demands of the game. "We're really wise with how we structure it so that our guys can get acclimated," he added.
A significant portion of the team consists of new members, presenting both fresh perspectives and challenges in maintaining team culture amidst change. "How do you maintain and even grow your culture in the midst of college football these days where there is so much transition and whatnot?" Creighton pondered. He emphasized EMU's strong existing culture as a solution: "We have a very strong culture that everybody who's been with the program knows, understands, and frankly believes in and loves."
Recruitment plays a key role in upholding this culture. "We recruit to that. We make sure people understand who we are, how we do it, why we do it. And then we're attracting those guys," Creighton explained.
This year's theme, "BET," signifies belief, excellence pursuit, and teamwork — principles integral to EMU football for over a century. "It goes back to the 130-plus years of football at Eastern Michigan," Creighton said.
The day also marked their first practice on Maxx Crosby Field. "It looks like a football stadium and it feels like a football stadium. It's beautiful," Creighton noted.
As fall camp begins, EMU aims not just for another season but to build on its legacy with renewed purpose under Coach Creighton's leadership.
For ticket information:
- Ultimate Fan Season Tickets: $180
- Reserved Season Tickets: $120
- General Admission Season Tickets: $108
- Faculty/Staff/Young Alumni Season Tickets: $84
- E-Club Membership: $200
- Alumni Season Value Pack: $240
- VIP Parking: $60
Contact Eastern Athletics Ticket Office at 734.487.3669 for more details.
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