Tyler Zalecki // Forward // Northwood, OH

    EMU Eagles Hockey is proud to announce that Tyler Zalecki, F will be joining the team for the 2017-2018 season.  Tyler comes to EMU as the all-time leader in games played, points, goals, and assists for the Toledo Cherokee (NA3HL) franchise.  As consistency is key, Zalecki had never registered less than 20 goals or 40 points in any of his four seasons with Toledo.  When asked why Eastern, Tyler replied with, “To be able to play with former teammates is special.  The campus is great and the school is close enough to home.”  Director of Hockey Operations, Mike Cobb, hopes that Tyler can provide a shot in the arm offensively for the Eagles.  “His numbers don’t lie.  He has been an extremely consistent offensive threat and we expect more of the same,” stated Cobb.  Zalecki hopes to bring a renewed hockey sense and leadership to EMU.  “My short term hockey goals are to always be improving by having a better record than the season before.  And I expect to make a run to the national tournament come March,” added Tyler. 

Aaron Bessey // Defenseman // Howell, MI

    From the Iron Range to Ypsilanti over 780 miles separate Hoyt Lakes, Minnesota from EMU and Ypsilanti, Michigan.  But for one new Eagle, deciding to play at Eastern Michigan was like coming home.  Aaron Bessey, D spent last season with the Minnesota Iron Rangers (Hoyt Lakes, MN) playing tier two Jr. A hockey in the SIJHL.  “I always knew that was Eastern solid, academically speaking.  When the hockey staff approached me, I liked what they had to offer as well,” says Bessey.  
    
    Head Coach Joseph Allen expects Bessey to shore up the Eagles defense.  “I know Aaron considerings himself an offensive defenseman.  We’re really looking for him to move the puck well,” added Allen.  On top of being a skilled player, Bessey also brings an added  physical element to the rink daily.  In the mean time, Aaron is looking forward to furthering his education while making a run for the national tournament with the Eagles.