Jeff Czachowski Senior Director, Sales, Service, & Operations | Eastern Michigan Athletics Website
Jeff Czachowski Senior Director, Sales, Service, & Operations | Eastern Michigan Athletics Website
With spring in full swing, Eastern Michigan University's (EMU) sports teams are keeping fans engaged with a week packed with events. Helming the "Eastern Insider Podcast," hosts Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner previewed upcoming matchups and reflected on the past season's highlights.
The Spring Football Game at Rynearson Stadium is the centerpiece event, scheduled for Friday night with free admission. Fans are encouraged to donate a children's book to support Ypsilanti Public Schools. "It's football weather," Helmer remarks, urging fans to enjoy the atmosphere akin to a September game. Position battles, particularly at quarterback, promise a preview of the fall season.
Women's lacrosse at EMU is gaining attention after recent victories against Detroit Mercy and Youngstown State. They face a challenging opponent in Oregon next. Steiner notes, "Games like this make you better—even if they don't affect the MAC standings." The top four teams in the MAC are vying tightly for position, with each win being crucial.
Baseball and tennis also feature prominently, with the baseball team aiming to recover from recent losses to Ball State by competing against Toledo. Helmer adds, "You can get a hat at every event," highlighting the additional perks for attendees.
In a review of the year's standout moments and athletes, the podcast lauded Christian Henry's efforts in men's basketball and praised the contributions of Justin Jefferson, Yusuf Jihad, and Logan Hugo for their leadership in football. Memorable performances included Jalen Terry's game-winning shot and Lily Wilhelm's record-setting rowing achievements.
Maddie Dugan and Sahar Nusseibeh were recognized for their positive impact in lacrosse and women's basketball, respectively. Cole Snyder earned Male Athlete of the Year, while Female Athlete of the Year saw strong contention among several athletes, including Mackenzie Blackwell and CeCe Aleko.
The podcast also featured a segment with Elena Davis, an EMU cheerleader set to compete in the NCA Collegiate Cheer & Dance Championship. Davis emphasized the discipline required for cheer, describing it as more intense than typically perceived. Despite the challenges, she expressed gratitude for her experience, reflecting on how it shaped her life.
With ongoing events and talented athletes, EMU continues to offer sports fans plenty of reasons to engage with the community.