Roko Simunic

Class:
Senior
Hometown:
Zagreb, Croatia

LAST COLLEGE-- Set the MAC conference records in 100 back, 200 free, and 400 IM relay... holds the Sun Belt Conference record in 100 back, 200 free, and 200 and 400 IM relays... named to the 2009-10 All-MAC First Team... named to the 2008-09 All-Sun Belt First Team... set the Missouri State record in 100 back.

HIGH SCHOOL-- Was the High School National Champion in both the 50 back and 50 breast... also competed for his native country of Croatia, where he is the national record holder in the 50 back... earned 15th place at the European Swimming Championships, held in Istanbul in 2009... ranked 31st in the world in 50 back by FINA... also won the national title in the 50 back.

PERSONAL-- Roko Simunic is the son of Jadranka and Branko Simunic... would like to be a lion tamer upon graduation... lists his biggest talents outside of swimming as parkour and palm reading... selected Missouri over Louisville, Indiana and Wisconsin because he believes they have the best coaching staff in the world... plans to double major in Finance & Banking and Economics.

FAST FACTS:

Why did you choose Missouri?

I chose Missouri because of the world-class coaching staff.

How has the program at Mizzou made you a better swimmer?

This program has helped me improve technical parts of my strokes, starts, and turns. Coaches teach you how to push your body to the limit. I also improved strength and endurance-wise. Anybody who has a desire to improve in those segments in swimming can really benefit from this program.

What is your best memory with the team?

Swimming relays with the team. I loved the "rush" I would get from swimming together with my teammates against other teams.

Favorite food:Prosciutto
What's on your iPod:House
Favorite sports star:Mike Tyson
Favorite movie:Fight Club
Quote to live by:"Don't sell yourself cheap."