As Joey Zelinsky prepares for his final regular-season game with Eastern Michigan University, the senior defensive lineman from Cressona, Pennsylvania, reflects on the journey that brought him to this moment. A product of Blue Mountain High School, Zelinsky’s career has been defined by grit, perseverance, and a profound responsibility to his team and the game.
When asked about the mindset of the team heading into their must-win game against Western Michigan, Zelinsky didn’t shy away from the challenges the Eagles have faced.
"Obviously, the plan wasn’t to lose four straight," he admitted. "But success isn’t determined by your wins or your successes; it’s how you bounce back from your losses."
Zelinsky views the team’s recent struggles as an opportunity for growth. “This four-game stretch taught us a lot about ourselves. Like coach [Creigton] said, we have no regrets about our preparation, but we need to keep chopping wood and carrying water every single day,” he explained. For him, the upcoming game against Western Michigan has a “Super Bowl vibe,” and he’s confident in the team’s ability to rise to the occasion.
Facing Western Michigan, a team with a highly regarded offensive line, Zelinsky and the rest of EMU’s defensive line know the stakes are high.
“We just need to do our job at a high level and be very aggressive,” he said.
Zelinsky highlighted the defensive unit’s strength.
"I feel like we have one of the best D-lines in the MAC," Zelinsky said. "You’ve seen guys putting up 22 tackles and getting sacks … just guys doing their job at a high level.”
The Eagles' emphasis is clear: dominate the line of scrimmage, play violently yet strategically, and execute every play with precision.
For Zelinsky, the memories of his time at Eastern Michigan are as vivid as they are meaningful. Reflecting on a standout moment, he pointed to the team’s incredible fourth-quarter comeback against Central Michigan earlier in the season.
"That was probably one of the craziest wins I’ve been a part of," he said.
Yet, he believes the most memorable moments are still to come.
“I feel we’ve got a bowl game coming, and I guarantee you the seniors and the guys who aren’t playing their last game but their last regular-season game are going to give everything they’ve got,” he said.
Looking beyond football, Zelinsky’s focus is firmly rooted in the present, though he has aspirations for a professional career.
“I’m going to go ahead and try for the pro day, hopefully, get a shot at any level,” he shared. “But right now, my sights are on beating Western. In a world of distractions, focus is a superpower.”
Zelinsky’s leadership extends far beyond the field. His commitment to his teammates and unwavering work ethic have left an indelible mark on EMU’s football program. As he prepares to step off the field for the final time in the regular season, one thing is sure: Joey Zelinsky embodies the spirit of Eastern Michigan football—resilient, passionate, and fiercely determined.
As the Eagles take on Western Michigan, they’ll do so with the heart and soul of their defensive line leading the charge, ready to leave it all on the field one last time. Read more about the upcoming game here on The Eastern Echo for all the latest news on Eastern Michigan athletics.
