George Mason University Athletics

Out of the Pool with Gabriel Juranovic

George Mason Athletics Men's Swimming & Diving 11/17/2014 2:10:00 PM

GoMason.com is going out of the pool to catch up with student-athletes on the swimming & diving team. The Patriots begin competition in the Patriot Invitational this Thursday. This installment features freshman Gabriel Juranovic.

GoMason.com: What influenced your decision to attend George Mason University?

Gabriel Juranovic: My recruiting trip to Mason was awesome and I loved the team. Additionally, the coaches were extremely nice and welcoming. They made me feel like I was wanted on the team and that I was valuable, which I really appreciated.

GoMason: What has been your favorite part about George Mason?

Juranovic: My favorite part of Mason has been the experience of being a student-athlete. It definitely is an amazing experience and something not everyone gets to come across. I am very grateful to have been given this opportunity by Mason.

GoMason: What goals have you set for yourself this season?

Juranovic: This season I want to significantly improve my times and, more importantly, I want to help the men's team win the A-10 championship.

GoMason: Which drill/practice is your favorite to do?

Juranovic: My favorite thing to do at practice is race. I enjoy fast sets where I can race my teammates and have fun competing and practicing my racing technique. Many times, at the end of practice we'll do a fast swim to finish off and this is always my favorite part of practice.

GoMason: What activities do you enjoy doing out of the pool?

Juranovic: I enjoy hanging out with my teammates, playing video games, listening to music, and just joking around with friends.

GoMason: If you could swim in one event in the Olympics, which would it be and why?

Juranovic: If I could swim one event it would surely be the 400 IM because this is my best event and since it is such a challenging event it tests me both mentally and physically. It is always rewarding to complete a 400 IM, especially when you got a fast time.

GoMason: If you could not swim, what other sport would you choose to compete in and why?

Juranovic: If I could not swim, I would compete in boxing because it is very fun in addition to being a great workout.

GoMason: If you had to eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

Juranovic: I would eat pabellón criollo, which is a Venezuelan dish consisting of rice and beans, shredded beef, and fried plantains. Growing up in a Venezuelan household, I had the chance to eat this dish often and I enjoy every single time.