Freshman John Heyden. Courtesy | Hillsdale College Athletic Department

What are your pre-meet routine habits?

My pre-meet routine consisted of blasting music, drinking lots of water and eating a little fruit; I preferred throwing on a rather empty stomach. I also made a point to pray and repeat Philippians 4:13 or John 3:16 in my head while warming up.

What is your go to meal (or restaurant) as soon as a meet ends?

In high school I would almost always go to Wendy’s after a meet and Buffalo Wild Wings after bigger meets.

What is your favorite Thanksgiving dish?

My favorite Thanksgiving dish is easily my mom’s stuffing. It’s incredible.

What is your favorite holiday and why?

My favorite holiday is Christmas. I think the family atmosphere is unmatched and the holiday feelings are at their peak.

Best movie?

My favorite movie series is “Rocky,” but if I had to pick one it would be “Rocky 2.”

Describe your craziest meet competition. 

My craziest meet was probably sectionals senior year, I had barely learned to glide in shotput but was able to pr and somehow got second in discus. My team was also incredibly close to winning despite very unfavorable odds.

If you could travel anywhere free of charge, where would you go?

If I could travel anywhere in the world for free, I would ideally like to do a road trip from Southern Italy to Germany, but if it’s one place, I’d say Rome.

What is Saga’s best meal?

Saga’s best meal in my opinion has to be making breakfast sandwiches with the omelets. An upperclassman thrower taught me that early in the year and since then it’s been a staple.

What is your favorite month of the year and why?

My favorite month of the year is July. My family always goes on trips in July and I spend a lot of time with friends.