Olympic medalist Ryan Lochte inducted into Spruce Creek Hall of Fame

PORT ORANGE — Twelve-time Olympic medalist Ryan Lochte walked onto the campus of Spruce Creek High School on last Friday for the first time in 19 years to be inducted into the school's Hall of Fame. 

Lochte, a 2002 Creek graduate, was among three athletes inducted by the school before the Hawks' Week 6 homecoming game against Lyman. 

"It's pretty amazing to be here. This is where I grew up," Lochte told The News-Journal. "I did what I love to do and it took me far ... got me to the point where I am today."

For Lochte, returning to Spruce Creek was bittersweet. Plenty of change, he said, but plenty of memories, too.

"Just walking in, there's so many memories and flashbacks," said the former Hawk and Florida Gator. Lochte graduated from UF in 2007 before going on to win his 12 Olympic medals. He's still the current world record holder in the 200-meter individual medley.

"Everything has changed," Lochte added. "Even Daytona Beach in general has changed." 

Lochte and his family moved to Central Florida from New York when Ryan was 12 so his father, Steve, could coach swimming at the Daytona Beach Swim Club. 

During his time at Spruce Creek from 1997-02, Lochte won the 200 and 500-yard individual freestyles along with three other relay state titles his junior and senior year. 

Lochte also helped lead the Hawks to the Class 3A state title his junior season. 

"Us winning state and that group I swam with ... those friends I had, I still keep in contact with," he said. "It's pretty amazing to look back at."

The 37-year-old failed to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics this past summer, and now dedicates his time to teaching swimming to youth while still reiterating that he's not yet officially retired.  

For now, Lochte's a swim ambassador at SPIRE Institute (Ohio) and said his goal is to remain as involved with swimming as he can. 

"I'm focused on giving back and helping the younger generation from what I've learned throughout my career," he added.