Olympic swimming champion Ryan Lochte has embarked on a new chapter in his life as he transitions from athlete to coach. On May 10, 2026, Lochte announced his appointment as assistant coach for the Missouri State Bears, expressing enthusiasm for this next phase by declaring, “Plot twist!! Ryan Lochte is officially becoming Coach Lochte.”
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In a video shared on social media, the 41-year-old gold medalist detailed his decision to leave behind his competitive swimming career to focus on coaching. He revealed that he believes he may possess a greater passion for coaching than he ever had for competing. Lochte reflected on his swimming journey, stating, “Swimming gave me an incredible career, memories, things I will cherish forever, but over the last couple of years, something so unexpected happened.”
Lochte boasts an impressive tally of 12 Olympic medals, including gold, silver, and bronze. His experience and success in the pool position him well to mentor the next generation of swimmers. The Missouri State swim team welcomed him with a post on social media that highlighted his accolades, stating, “Adding 12 Olympic medals to the staff. Welcome assistant coach Ryan Lochte.”
Lochte shared his excitement further in his announcement, stating that he has “traded in [his] goggles for a stopwatch,” and he is eagerly looking forward to the role. He light-heartedly assured fans that his spirited personality would remain intact, promising that he would still “say ‘Jeah’” — his famed catchphrase — and “will still over-celebrate” during coaching sessions. He acknowledged, “Yes, there might be way too much energy on pool day, but that’s okay.”
In addition to his coaching responsibilities, Lochte will be working closely with Missouri State head swim coach Dave Collins, a partnership he is eager to begin. “I’m beyond excited to work with the athletes at Missouri State alongside coach Dave Collins, helping these swimmers both in and out of the pool and creating unforgettable memories along the way,” Lochte said.
His girlfriend, Molly Gillihan, who he moved in with earlier this year, publicly celebrated his achievement. She commented on his announcement with words of encouragement, saying, “I am beyond, beyond proud of you. This is what you were made to do!” Gillihan also shared his video on her own social media platforms and expressed her pride by saying, “Let’s go baby!!! So FREAKING proud of you!!! Bringing Coach Lochte to Springfield.”
Lochte’s transition into coaching comes as he steps away from a competitive career that many would consider legendary. Previously, in December, the swimmer had auctioned off his Olympic medals, marking a symbolic end to that phase of his life. Now, with a fresh focus on mentorship, he aims to pour his considerable knowledge and experience into the athletes he will guide.
Ryan Lochte is a father to three children with his ex-wife, Kayla Rae Reid: son Caiden Zane, aged 8, and daughters Liv Rae, 6, and Georgia June, 2. As he settles into his new role, he looks forward not only to shaping young swimmers’ careers but also to making lasting memories with his family, as they embark on this new journey together in Springfield, Missouri.
As the swimming community anticipates his coaching debut, Lochte’s enthusiasm and dedication hint at a promising new direction in his career. The Missouri State Bears swim team could well be witnessing the making of a new coaching star in Lochte, who now stands ready to inspire and develop the swimmers of tomorrow.