In the recent 100m backstroke event, USA’s Regan Smith came second right behind Kaylee McKeown, the Australian swimmer. The rivalry between the two took full-fledged wings as they raced to the finish line. McKeown won the battle and effectively the gold medal with the time of 57.33 with Smith trailing right behind at 57.66. This was the American’s fourth medal in the Olympics as she won three medals in the Tokyo edition with two silvers and one bronze. This tally is a testament to her drive and the talent she possesses which was evident during her early success as a junior swimmer.

At just 17, Regan Smith shocked everybody by winning two gold medals at the 2019 World Championships. She clinched victory in the 200m backstroke and the 4x100m medley relay. Even before that, she became only the seventh 15-year-old to complete the 100m backstroke within one minute. Thus, she is a prodigy, and her talent has been taken seriously by everyone who has watched her throughout the years. However, the gold medal at the Olympics is the only accolade that has eluded her so far. Looking at her record, though, that might not be the case for long.

Her collegiate career accolades also deserve a footnote of their own. That brings us to the elephant in the room: why did Regan Smith decide to leave her college after just a year? What transpired for her to take such an action? Here, we uncover it.

Learn about Regan Smith’s College

Regan Smith was born in Lakeville, Minnesota to Paul and Kristi Smith. This was just half an hour away from Stanford University’s campus. So when it came to choosing a college, it seemed the natural choice. By then, Smith had already established herself as a big name in the Junior swimming circuit. She had been the national champion twice and was a member of the Riptide swim team. With them, she had set numerous state, national, and Junior World records. Stanford were thus getting a great prodigy in their swimming program.

During her freshman year, Regan Smith earned numerous accolades. She became the NCAA champion in the 200 backstroke and 800 free relay. Additionally, she was named both the Women’s Swimmer of the Year and the Women’s Freshman Swimmer of the Year, a commendable feat. She also defeated Arizona State University in the 200-meter butterfly and medleyrelay. While still in college, she traveled to Tokyo for the Olympics and won three medals.

For a while, it seemed like a match made in heaven for both parties. Stanford’s swimming program was gaining immense goodwill through her name, while she was honing her skills. However, just after one year, Regan Smith decided to transfer from Stanford University to Arizona State University. This development surprised many, as she appeared to be thriving at Stanford. However, she had other plans in mind.

Why did Regan Smith leave Stanford University and join Arizona?

During the transfer, Regan Smith issued a press release informing everyone about the decision. There, she specified the main reason she wanted to join Arizona State University. She said, “After a tremendous amount of reflection and soul-searching, I have chosen to pursue my competitive swimming goals as a professional athlete,” Arizona State University’s program was handled by Bob Bowman. He has earned a lot of respect in the swimming community after training numerous famous swimmers. One of them, Micheal Phelps is perhaps the greatest of all time.

Smith believed that to prioritize her swimming career and hone her skills, she needed to train under Bowman. She wanted him to lead her into the Paris Olympics. “I’m entirely confident that Bob’s leadership and training will have me exactly where I want to be for Paris 2024.” She added, “I believe that, in the long run, this is the best way for me to continue to develop as an athlete.”

Looking at her performances in Paris, it’s safe to say that decision paid off. Today, she is among the best in the world. She also has a chance to get her hands on two other medals with the 200m butterfly and backstroke looming around.