The 2024 NCAA gymnastics season has kicked off, bringing with it a mix of triumphs and challenges for the LSU Tigers. The ranked No. 3 Tigers had an impressive first opening night meet against No. 14 Ohio State. However, they faced a significant setback due to an integral member of the squad who got injured during the meet and had to withdraw from the competition.

With this unexpected turn, fans were left wondering about her plans with the team. But now the 22-year-old star herself has shared her role in the 2024 NCAA season.

The injured LSU Tiger shares her new role in the 2024 NCAA season

In an Instagram post, Alyona Shchennikova, the all-around champion at the 2017 U.S. Classic, shared her role in the upcoming 2024 season. She shared a picture where she was candidly snapped at the previous game on her wheelchair bike, holding up an “L” sign. Expressing that all things happen for a reason, the caption of her post read, “I’m always going to hold up the L loud and proud, even in my new role! Can’t wait to be this team’s biggest cheerleader this year!” To top the post with her genuine love for her squad, she ended the note by adding “Geaux Tigers” with a purple heart.

On January 5, Alyona had a lower leg injury and couldn’t compete. She was even seen cheering for her teammates with her leg in bandages and using a scooter. All though fans will miss seeing her blazing performances, especially in the balance beam event, fans look forward to her new role and seeing her at all the LSU showdowns like the one on January 5 that saw the team turn tables like no other.

LSU’s thrilling opening night

No. 3 LSU faced an initial setback in their first meet of the NCAA 2024 season against No. 14 Ohio State. LSU had been performing well but struggled in the balance beam event due to Alyona’s absence, including falls from Sierra Ballard and Konnor McClain. However, turning the tables around, LSU had a strong start on vault, with notable performances from KJ Johnson, Amari Drayton, and others.

The team continued their skillful performance on bars, with Alexis Jeffrey leading the way. The floor routine also saw solid contributions from LSU standouts Olivia Dunne and others. Finishing the night with great team spirit, the No. 3 LSU gymnastics team won their opening night meet against No. 14 Ohio State with a score of 196.975 – 196.775.

Read more: Star Studded LSU’s Gymnastics Squad Line Up Including Olivia Dunne, All Set to Start NCAA 2024 Season

The team will next face the Sprouts Farmers Market Collegiate Quad Meet in West Valley City, Utah, on January 13. Fans look forward to more such blazing performances from the Tigers and are excited to see Alyona Shchennikova contribute to the team spirit with her fervent cheers.

Watch this story: Global Giant With Over $59,300,000,000 Revenue Joins Hands With Past Olympians in a Wild-Entry to Paris Olympics