Jere Getzinger (West Branch, Michigan/Ogemaw Heights) has been a critical Eastern Michigan University football figure. He embodies consistency, leadership, and a relentless work ethic as a reliable tight end. From his first season in 2020 to his senior year in 2024, Getzinger’s journey has been defined by his dedication to the team and ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure moments.
Getzinger earned his degree in April 2024, is now pursuing his MBA in marketing, and has had an illustrious career at EMU. Over the years, he has proven himself as a reliable tight end and a team leader. In 2023, he appeared in all 13 games and started 10, hauling 16 receptions for 88 yards and a touchdown. That touchdown, his first collegiate score, was unforgettable — coming in double overtime to clinch a dramatic win against Akron on Nov. 14.
Reflecting on moments like this, Getzinger has remained humble, saying, “I was just doing my job. Coach probably did a good job scheming it up.”
One of Getzinger’s favorite aspects of his role as a senior is providing leadership to his teammates, particularly the new transfers adjusting to the Mid-American Conference.
“The MAC is a totally different conference than any other conference out there,” he explained. “You’ve got to be your best every day. And then it’s energy—having energy on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, and then bringing the energy on Saturday because the winner of the game is going to be the team who has the most high energy at the end of the day.”
Getzinger’s leadership has been especially crucial during challenging stretches.
“I think it’s just bringing energy every day because that’s the biggest thing,” he said. “You can’t just be lazy — body language and everything. You’ve just got to be ready to go and know what’s at stake every day.”
His connection with quarterback Cole Snyder (Lakewood, New York/Southwest/Rutgers/Buffalo) has been pivotal to the Eagles’ offense this season.
“Cole’s an awesome guy,” Getzinger said. “In the summer, you can see how this guy works. He’s in here watching film all the time, getting after it, always doing his rehab. When you see someone working that hard, you want to work just as hard for them.”
Getzinger’s ability to perform under pressure has been a hallmark of his career. From big plays in critical moments to his leadership in the locker room, he has consistently stepped up when the team needed him most.
“For me, I’m just out there. I get in this zone, and it’s just like I’m doing my job and trying to do it to the best of my ability,” he said.
Getzinger’s path to EMU began at Ogemaw Heights High School in West Branch, Michigan, where he was a dominant force on both sides of the ball. He was a first-team all-state selection, the 2019 MLive Bay City Football Dream Team’s Defensive Player of the Year, and the Golden Helmet Class B Player of the Year. As a senior, he racked up 59 tackles, 11 sacks, and three fumble recoveries while leading his team to its first playoff berth in six years. His success at Ogemaw Heights set the stage for his collegiate career, where he has continued to make an impact.
As the Eagles look to finish the 2024 season strong, Getzinger focuses on taking it one game at a time. “We’ve got to go 1-0 each week. We’re not going to think about the future right now.”
As the Eagles prepare for their final game against Western Michigan on Saturday, Nov. 30, at 1:30 p.m. in Kalamazoo, Getzinger and his teammates have one last opportunity to finish the year on a high note. With their sights set on ending the season with a victory, Getzinger’s leadership and determination will undoubtedly play a key role in rallying the team.
