FAIRFAX, Va. – Thank you to senior Fernando Rubio, who took some time to chat with GoMason.com for this edition of Out of the Pool. Rubio has already earned Atlantic 10 Co-Performer of the Week honors this season and looks to continue his success in the pool on November 16 against conference opponent La Salle. 

GoMason.com: What made you ultimately choose to swim at George Mason?

Rubio: The swim team's camaraderie was exactly what I was looking for in a team and I believe the team will help take me to the next level of competitiveness.

GoMason.com: In your opinion, what is the best part about swimming for George Mason?

Rubio: Being able to achieve my goals and watch my teammates do the same.

GoMason.com: What are your goals for the 2013-2014 season?

Rubio: To be the best 400IM swimmer Mason has ever had and leave a lasting impression, to qualify for NCAA's and represent Mason, and to know I gave it my all at the end of the season.

GoMason.com: What kind of music do you listen to before a race?

Rubio: I try to listen to what gets me in the zone to race, it varies a lot. My teammates would say chick music.

GoMason.com: Where do you find your inspiration to swim/dive?

Rubio: My family members and from people who have impacted my life the most.

GoMason.com: What activities do you like to do outside of the pool?

Rubio: Watch movies and chill with friends.

GoMason.com: How do you stay in shape during the offseason?

Rubio: There's no real off season to swimming, so I just keep swimming.

GoMason.com: What is your favorite and least favorite workout to do in practice?

Rubio: My favorite set is an IM set; my least favorite set is any long course IM set. There is a difference!

Other Favorites:

Food - Mom's homemade Hawaiian Pizza

Guilty Pleasure Food - Triple chocolate German cake

Movie - So many to choose from, top three would be:  Warrior, Four Brothers, and Cool Runnings.

Song - Don't Stop Believin by Journey

Quote - "Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard."- Charles Archer