EAST TAWAS – A Rising Soccer Star with Deep Local Roots
In the vibrant tapestry of local sports, one burgeoning star is weaving a remarkable narrative. Josephine “Jo” Blazic, at the tender age of 18, is not only making waves in the world of soccer but is also a cherished member of the East Tawas community.
As she embarks on her college journey this fall at Lawrence Technological University in Southfield, the young forward has already claimed a coveted starting position on the women’s soccer team. Her ascent doesn’t stop there; last month, she was selected to represent the U.S. Women’s Deaf National Team alongside 17 exceptional players. Their exhilarating excursion to Tokyo, Japan, from November 8 to 18, culminated in an impressive 6-1 victory against the Japanese national team, with Blazic marking her debut with a spectacular goal.
Yet, despite the thrilling trajectory of her soccer career, the echoes of home resonate deeply within her heart. East Tawas, the city where she took her first breaths, remains close to her spirit. Before embarking on her collegiate adventure, Blazic returned to her roots last summer. Her familial ties are strong; her father, Jon Blazic, orchestrates operations at the USG Quarry in Alabaster Township, while her mother, Shelli, devotes her expertise to Tawas Area Schools as a social worker.
Reflecting on their journey, Jon recounts, “We lived in Tawas for several years, right around the time Jo was born. Then life took us to Burlington, Iowa for 15 years. I made the move back in 2022 to manage the Alabaster quarry, while Shelli stayed behind to support Josephine through high school.”
The family’s reunion in 2024 holds a special significance for Jon. “We’re finally all back together in one state, and rooted in the town where we always dreamed of returning to retire.”
Blazic’s high school career was adorned with accolades; upon graduating from Burlington High School, a local journalist hailed her as “one of the best players to ever wear a Burlington jersey.” She amassed an impressive tally of 24 goals and 11 assists during her senior season, leading her team to an undefeated conference campaign. This achievement is particularly remarkable, as it underscores her resilience—she has navigated the challenges of being born deaf and utilizes cochlear implants to hear.
The invitation to join the Women’s Deaf National Team caught Blazic by surprise, yet it transformed into a cherished experience. “There is an entire international league for deaf athletes, with competition that’s extraordinarily high,” she remarks, hinting at the formidable level of dedication and skill involved.
“Traveling to Japan, training with this team, and playing at the national level was a dream come true,” Blazic effuses. As she continues her soccer journey, aspirations to engage with the Deaf National team again and to build upon her initial successes in college linger in her mind.
Academically, Blazic is venturing into the realm of biomedical engineering, driven by a fervent desire to innovate and research solutions to enhance hearing for the deaf community.
“The upcoming years will be a whirlwind of obtaining my degree and playing soccer at every opportunity,” she shares with a spark of determination. “My ultimate goal is to work as a biomedical engineer for Cochlear, contributing a unique perspective as technology continues to evolve in the realm of cochlear implants.”
Blazic is not just a player; she’s a beacon of hope, a confluence of athleticism and ambition, ready to leave her mark on both the soccer field and the world of biomedical advancements.
