COLUMBUS, Ind. — Ryan Wochomurka first stepped foot on the campus of Auburn University nearly 20 years ago as a student-athlete on the swimming and diving team.
Now, he’s making a return to his alma mater this year — but in a much different capacity.
On April 23, Auburn announced Wochomurka as its new head swimming and diving coach. The Columbus native had spent the previous six seasons as head coach at the University of Houston.
“I couldn’t be more excited to have the opportunity to serve as head coach at Auburn, my alma mater,” Wochomurka said. “In many ways, it’s a dream come true for me and my family. I’m just excited for the opportunity.”
Wochomurka had his first face-to-face meeting with the Auburn swimmers April 26. When he arrived at the James E. Martin Aquatic Center, he also got the chance to reminisce and reflect on his days in the pool.
“It’s been 20 years ago since I was a freshman (at Auburn),” Wochomurka said. “As much as things have changed, the campus looks different in many, many ways. But in many ways, there’s things that are very much the same.”
Wochomurka, a 2001 Columbus North graduate, had a decorated swimming career in high school. He was a state champion in the 200-yard freestyle in 2000 and the 200 individual medley and 100 freestyle in 2001, setting a state record. In the latter, he also swam on the state champion 200 freestyle relay teams in 1999 and 2000 and on the 400 freestyle relay teams from 1998-2000.
For the complete story, see Friday’s Republic sports section.
