Representing CSUB on an international stage

Scholar-athlete profile: Kris Rogic

By California State University, Bakersfield

July 23^rd, 2020

Being a student-athlete in the United States was always a dream for Kris Rogic. Though he reached international success as a swimmer in his home country of Croatia, he said his journey truly began at CSUB.

“I came from a country that is doing pretty rough right now,” he said. “But I’m hungry, I’m motivated … We have a program here that gives so much opportunity.”

A record-setting swimmer on campus, Kris is a recipient of the Roadrunner Scholarship, which provides financial support to student-athletes in need. While earning his bachelor’s degree in business administration, Kris aims to represent Croatia at the 2021 Summer Olympics — putting CSUB on the international stage.

He joins fellow `Runner student-athletes on their journeys to the Olympics. Swimmers Autumn D'Arcy and Loren Gillilan clinched spots at the U.S. Olympic Trials, and international student Mikayla Popham will compete in her home country at the Australian Olympic Trials.

Kris credits much of his success to what he’s learned at CSUB.

Representing CSUB on an international stage

“I’m very grateful. I couldn’t do it without my teammates and coaches, and also the support I get from staff and faculty.”

“The leaders taught me a lot about brotherhood and what it means to be a `Runner. I bleed blue and gold right now. I think of everyone here as a huge family.”