Will Phelps and Lochte Change the Face of US...

As swimming events in London wind down, Phelps and Lochte have begun making their plans after these Olympics known. Michael Phelps has said that after four Olympics and 21 medals (so far) that he is done. He definitely has changed his routine between Beijing and London, with less success in the pool this time, but more smiles. However, at the end of his grueling schedule in Beijing that netted him eight golds, he said he wouldn't swim as much in London. He was right, by only one event. As such, it is conceivable that in two years, he starts looking to Rio with a less demanding schedule, perhaps no individual medleys? Maybe fewer strokes? After almost a decade as the face of the team, it's hard to believe that he will really not be in Rio in 2016.

Ryan Lochte is in his third Olympics, but is actually older than Michael Phelps. As he finished his program at the London Olympics, and celebrated his birthday today, Lochte stated he will be in Rio, but with a modified schedule. Mostly sprints next time is very possible. He stated that he will swim as long as he's having fun. That makes one wonder if Phelps no longer enjoys the sport he has owned so long. Also, if Phelps and Lochte will both be out of individual medleys and maybe relays, who will fill the void? Tyler Clary and Nathan Adrian, both first time gold medalists in London? US swimming will certainly change in the next four years, but will it be for the better?