EVANSTON, Illinois, June 16. NORTHWESTERN might have found the ingredient that will put it over the top in its quest for NCAA championships in the medley relay events. Bruno Barbic, a standout sprint freestyler, has confirmed that he is transferring from the University of Washington to Northwestern, a move that will certainly bolster the Wildcats in relay action and in its quest for a Big Ten Conference team title.
With Matt Grevers, Mike Alexandrov and Kyle Bubolz on the opening three legs of the medley relay events, Northwestern has three of the best individuals in their respective strokes. Now, the Wildcats might have the firepower on the end to claim gold. At last spring’s NCAA Championships, Northwestern was fourth in both medley relays. Northwestern was also seventh in the 200 and 400 freestyle relays. A native of Croatia, Barbic was fifth in the consolation final of the 50 free at the NCAA Championships in his final season at Washington.
“I think we’re going to be able to do some big things,” Barbic said. “I like the institution and the atmosphere.”