

“A [GOAT emoji] bday @_haleighbryant (flaming heart emoji).” Those were the words Olivia Dunne shared on her Instagram story last year, celebrating not just a teammate, but her best friend, her rock, and her inspiration. Alongside those words was a snapshot—one that held more than just a moment in time, a candid snapshot with Haleigh taken in the Tigers’ locker room after winning SEC Championships 2023. It was a tribute, a testament to everything Haleigh Bryant has given to LSU Gymnastics. And now we have more!
For five years, Haleigh poured her heart into gymnastics, building a legacy of greatness—not for the glory, but for the love of the sport and her team. And Olivia? She was right there, cheering the loudest, celebrating every win like it was her own. Because that’s what best friends do—they lift each other up, honor each other’s greatness, and cherish every moment. With that simple post, Olivia wasn’t just wishing Haleigh a happy birthday—she was saying thank you. For the memories, the moments, and for being the GOAT in both gymnastics and friendship. And another proof of this bonding carved in posts and pictures? Consider what Olivia did on March 7, celebrating LSU Tigers gymnastics’ Senior Night.
On March 7, Olivia Dunne watched from the sidelines as her patella injury kept her from battling the Georgia GymDogs. Another missed meet, another test of patience. But the event around last Friday was different—it was Senior Night, and as the team’s Super Senior, she couldn’t sit this one out. She stepped into the PMAC before the match, welcomed by roaring fans, flowers from her coaches, and a wave of love. But when it was her turn to give back, to honor the one who meant the most in her journey, Livvy didn’t hold back. Some moments are bigger than routines—this was one of them. She had yet another chance to stand on the mat with her BFF, Haleigh. Livvy seized the unique moment without wasting a minute.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
On March 8, Livvy reshared another unforgettable moment on her Instagram story—a snapshot from Senior Night at the PMAC. Standing beside her was none other than Haleigh Bryant, draped in LSU blue, bouquets in hand, a champion in every sense. But beyond the flowers and the celebration, there was something deeper—the quiet, unshakable bond between them. Shoulders touching, smiles effortless, they radiated the warmth of a friendship built through years of shared victories and unwavering support. And in just two words, Livvy said it all: “🐐 4ever.” Not just a tribute to Haleigh’s greatness in gymnastics, but to a bond that will outlast every routine, every season, and every chapter beyond LSU.
Also, enter the promise made by Hayleigh for Livvy in the string of Instagram stories.

USA Today via Reuters
Apr 20, 2024; Fort Worth, TX, USA; LSU Tigers gymnast Olivia Dunne warms up on floor before the start of the 2024 Womens National Gymnastics Championship at Dickies Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Olivia Dunne reshared Hayleigh’s post on her Instagram story that spoke louder than words. The moment was shot in the LSU Tigers’ locker room, where she stood beside Haleigh Bryant, both smiling—two teammates, two best friends, holding onto a bond built through years of triumphs, struggles, and unbreakable trust. But it was Haleigh’s simple, three-word caption that truly said it all: “till the end❤️🤞.” A promise. A reflection of everything they’ve been through together. No matter where life takes them after LSU, some friendships aren’t just for a season—they’re for a lifetime. But how did the GOAT celebrate the Senior Night? Here comes the proof.
Haleigh Bryant didn’t let Olivia Dunne’s absence be felt on the mat
“Physically, yes, I think my body is in a really good spot right now.” Haleigh Bryant’s words shared with NOLA.com carried a quiet strength, a ray of hope, as she stepped into Senior Night on March 7. A year ago, she and Olivia Dunne made a promise—to return, to give LSU one more season, embracing their COVID-extended year together. But since then, their journeys have taken different paths.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
What’s your perspective on:
Despite her injury, does Olivia Dunne's spirit make her the heart of the LSU Tigers?
Have an interesting take?
Olivia, still waiting for her moment to return, has yet to step onto the mat since the Arkansas meet on January 24. Haleigh, on the other hand, has been fighting her way back, rebuilding herself piece by piece. And last Friday night? She reminded everyone exactly who she was. With the anchor leg in three events, she didn’t just compete—she delivered. She kept LSU in the fight, her presence unwavering, her performances electric. Her all-around score? A stunning 39.750, the second-best for LSU that night. Days earlier, against George Washington, she claimed the all-around title outright with a solid score of 39.725 on February 27.

ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
The GOAT is finding her rhythm again, proving why she belongs among the best. And through it all, Olivia has been right there, playing her role not just as a teammate but as the heart of the team—cheering, supporting, and standing by her best friend. Because even when the paths differ, the bond remains unshaken!
Have something to say?
Let the world know your perspective.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Debate
Despite her injury, does Olivia Dunne's spirit make her the heart of the LSU Tigers?