East Michigan News

The season seven premiere of the Eastern Insider Podcast, hosted by Greg Steiner and Tom Helmer, sets a tone for the year ahead, blending light-hearted banter with deep dives into Eastern Michigan University's athletic programs. The episode begins with Helmer's recount of a family trip to Disney, where an unexpectedly intense roller coaster ride led to both thrills and spills. This start transitions into a celebration of EMU women's soccer, now under the leadership of new head coach Taylor Clarke.

Clarke's arrival marks a turning point for the program, with the team already off to an impressive 3-0 start. Steiner and Helmer commend the squad's noticeable improvements in conditioning and tactics, reflecting Clarke's vision for a fast-paced, aggressive style of play. Clarke emphasizes the importance of a cohesive atmosphere. His strategy of integrating key transfers while maintaining the core of the existing team has paid off as the Eagles enter the new season with confidence.

The podcast then shifts focus to the football season opener against UMass, a future Mid-American Conference member. The hosts explore complexities including UMass's rigorous "Thunderstruck drill," designed to maximize speed and agility. Football head coach Chris Creighton, entering his 11th season at EMU, shares insights on blending newcomers with seasoned players, reflecting on his experience in team management from his Division III coaching days.

Creighton underscores EMU's core values—belief, excellence, and togetherness—established at the start of his tenure and crucial to resilience and growth. As college football evolves with NIL and transfer portals rising, Creighton remains committed to nurturing a strong program.

Overall, the season premiere not only entertains but also provides fans with a comprehensive look at what's in store for EMU athletics. With engaging storytelling and in-depth analysis, Steiner and Helmer lay groundwork for what promises to be an exciting year across all sports.