"A gator for life" - Ryan Lochte reminisces about college life with wife and kids at University of Florida

Former American competitive swimmer and six-time Olympic gold medalist Ryan Lochte visited his alma mater, the University of Florida on Sunday (Oct. 20). His wife, Kayla Lochte, and his two children accompanied him during the tour.

Lochte spent the entirety of his collegiate career at the University of Florida where he completed a major in sports management. He also competed for the college's sports team, Florida Gators. Having had an extensive collegeiate career for the school, it was natural that he felt nostalgic about his time at the university after going back.

Lochte took to his Instagram handle to share a few glimpses from his tour of the University. In the pictures, Lochte can be seen wearing a Florida Gators t-shirt, while his daughter is seen also wearing a dress with shades of Gators. The 40-year-old met with a few members of the collegiate side's coaching staff and also attended a Gators rugby match.

He wrote in the caption:

"Once you’re a gator, you’re a gator for life!!!"

Ryan Lochte had been one of the most prolific swimmers for his collegiate side, the Florida Gators. The Rochester native won 11 titles at the NCAA Championships including seven gold until his graduation in 2007. He also won numerous other prestigious awards such as the NCAA Male Swimmer of the Year (2006) and SEC Male Swimmer of the Year (2003, 2005).

Ryan Lochte opens up about his life after being inactive from the sport

Ryan Lochte on the fifth day of the 11th FINA World Swimming Championships (Image via: Getty Images)

Ryan Lochte shed light on his daily schedule after he stopped participating in competitions actively. Lochte last competed in 2021 during the US Swimming Trials where he failed to find a place in the US team for the Tokyo Olympics.

In a recent interview, Lochte revealed that he has a lot of "free time" currently which has enabled him to enjoy the space he is in. He said (via WABL News Radio):

"It’s like man, I have so much free time. Like, I’m just like in the garage, like cutting wood, nailing things. And my wife’s like, what the hell are you doing, Ryan? Like, I’m like, I don’t know, really. I’m enjoying my life.”

Even though Lochte hasn't participated in professional competitions in recent years, he has not officially announced his retirement from the sport. Besides, he had also indicated he will take up a swimming teaching job in the future.