Ryan Lochte Joins Missouri State as Assistant Coach for 2026-2027
Ryan Lochte is joining Missouri State as an assistant coach for the 2026-2027 season, making his coaching debut after a decorated swimming career. Missouri State announced the hire as it adds a 12-time Olympic medalist who last competed at the 2021 US Olympic Trials-Wave II.
Lochte's Missouri State fit
Lochte said, "What stood out to me about Missouri State is the culture," and added that the program has "a strong sense of purpose, accountability, and team-first mentality." He also said the staff has built "something meaningful and sustainable," describing the fit as one that matches how he sees the sport.
He pointed to head coach Dave Collins and associate head coach Chelsea Dirks-Ham, saying they have created "an environment that emphasizes development, not just performance." Lochte said their vision aligns with his own, including "developing complete athletes and great people."
Lochte's record and resume
The hire brings one of swimming's most decorated names into a college staff for the first time. Lochte represented the United States at the 2004, 2008, 2012, and 2016 Olympic Games, swam to eight long course meters world records, and is still associated with the men's 4×200 free relay world record of 6:58.55 from 2009.
His college work at Florida was just as extensive. Lochte graduated in 2007 with a degree in sport management, became a 24-time All-American, won seven NCAA titles, and held NCAA records in the 100 backstroke, 200 backstroke, 200 IM and 400 IM.
Missouri State's recent standard
Missouri State is adding Lochte after another strong season in the pool. The men's team won its sixth Missouri Valley Conference title and 22nd overall conference championship this past season, while the women finished third out of nine teams at the 2026 Missouri Valley Conference Championships.
For Lochte, the move opens a new chapter. He said, "Swimming has given me so much, and this is my chance to give back in a meaningful way," and added that he wants to be a coach athletes can trust while helping shape the next generation. That is the job he will begin when the 2026-2027 season arrives.
