The senior captain and his teammates are looking at a possible four-peat. St. Thomas Academy has won three consecutive Class 1A boys' swimming titles, and won the true team crown by more than 300 points in January. Here is a closer look at Najarian:
Q The best movie I've seen in the last year?
A "John Wick."
Q Three songs I never skip on my iPod are …
A ... "Hooked on a Feeling" by B.J. Thomas; "Chimes" by Friendly Fires; and "Dum Dee Dum" by Keys N Krates.
Q Three words or phrases your friends or teammates would use to describe you are …
A … talkative, upbeat and creative.
Q When did you become interested in competing in swimming?
A I was 7 years old. I loved to swim in my pool, so why not do it as a sport?
Q At my first varsity practice you felt …
A ... comfortable, and happy to be part of the varsity team.
Q What is you favorite meal before a meet?
A Fettuccini alfredo with grilled chicken and chocolate milk.
Q To get focused for an event, you …
A ... visualize the whole race, and a time that I am shooting for.
Q How do you balance school and sports during the year?
A Being organized, staying up late and taking advantage of my study hall.
Q Name one sport you wish you could participate in that you don't?
A Hockey. It's the sport of Minnesota.
Q In 10 years, you hope you're …
A ... a dentist running a practice in Stillwater.
Q Best sports advice you have ever received?
A Don't let a bad swim prevent you from making the next swim great.
RON HAGGSTROM