Article by David Istrate – Published Monday, May 11, 2026 9:27 p.m. / Updated Monday, May 11, 2026 9:28 p.m.
Six-time Olympic swimming champion Ryan Lochte, 41, will join the Missouri State University swim team as an assistant coach. He said he wants to share his experience at the world's major competitions with students and help them form healthy habits both in and out of the pool.
Ryan Lochte is a huge name in swimming with 12 Olympic medals (6 gold, 3 silver, 3 bronze), 18 world titles and a further 21 world short course titles. He participated in 3 editions of the Olympic Games: Beijing (2008), London (2012) and Rio de Janeiro (2016).
New Missouri State University secondary coach Ryan Lochte: 'It's more than times or results'
After going through several scandals over the years, Lochte seems to have found the next stage of his life. Specifically, he will serve as the associate head coach of the Missouri State University swim team.
“Swimming has given me structure, purpose and a platform to grow not just as an athlete but as a person. Stepping into a coaching role now and imparting that experience to student-athletes is something I take seriously”, said Lochte, quoted by ESPN.
“It's about more than times or results. It's about helping young men and women build the discipline, endurance and confidence that will carry them beyond the pool. I've been through the ups and downs of this sport and I want to use that perspective to guide, support and help them reach their full potential in and out of the water,” he added.
Lochte will be part of his staff Dave Collins, who was voted the conference's coach of the year 13 times.
“We are excited to welcome Ryan to the coaching staff. Beyond his long list of accomplishments as an athlete, Ryan has a work ethic that will translate very well into a coaching role. When you have the opportunity to bring in one of the best in our sport, you do everything you can to succeed,” Collins said.
