Penn State Kicker Joey Julius Opens Up About His Battle With Eating Disorder

Penn State kicker Joey Julius discusses his struggles with binge eating disorder on Facebook.

joey julius
USA Today Sports

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joey julius

Early Monday morning, Penn State kicker Joey Julius published a lengthy message on his Facebook page, explaining his absence from the football program throughout the summer. On May 9, Julius was admitted into McCallum Place in St. Louis, Mo. to seek treatment for a binge eating disorder. Listed at 271 pounds on ESPN, the Nittany Lions kicker was not only experiencing an increase in weight, his depression and anxiety started to impact his "overall happiness but also my performance as a normal human being." 

Julius credits Penn State head coach James Franklin, his training staff, and doctors for not only noticing that he needed help, but for staying by his side throughout his ordeal. He also offered help to anyone dealing with a similar issue. "If anyone and I mean anyone guy or girl is struggling with the the same or anything similar please message me as I will be in immediate contact to help in any way i can to provide information or insight on my struggles and I would love to help," Julius wrote. 

In a statement obtained by The Daily Collegian, Franklin commended Julius for seeking treatment. 

"We are very proud of Joe and fully support him as he deals with these personal matters. However, as is our policy, we do not discuss the medical affairs of our student-athletes. We ask for others to be supportive and respectful, as well!"

Read Julius's Facebook post below. 


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