Fighting for LSU Attention: Olivia Dunne, Haleigh Bryant, Coach Clark and Other’s Contribution to NCAA Gymnastics Glory

The collective effort of Olivia Dunne, Haleigh Bryant, and many more under the guidance of Coach Jay Clark have contributed to the storied legacy of the LSU Tigers. Olivia Dunne recently praised her LSU teammate Haleigh Bryant for winning the AAI Award 2024. Bryant, a standout performer for LSU, earned the award for her outstanding performances during the 2023-24 season. The LSU Tigers’ 2024 season has been spectacular boasting the highest attendance in NCAA gymnastics with an average of 12,590 fans at their six home meets.

After 50 years, LSU gymnastics clinched the long-awaited national title with a score of 198.2250, surpassing California, Utah, and Florida at the NCAA championships in Fort Worth. As the celebration continues, let’s delve deeper into the journey of these exceptional athletes and their profound influence on shaping the gymnastics world.

Jay Clark credits legendary coach amid LSU’s NCAA gymnastics success

Recently, College Gym News posted on their X account sharing the views of Coach Jay Clark by stating, “The latest championship-winning coach gives credit where credit is due. #NCAAgym Hear more from the unsung hero of the newest national champions.” Clark refused to celebrate his team’s win until legendary coach D-D Breaux made her way down from the stands. 

When Aleah Finnegan was asked about the team’s unsung hero amidst their success, she pointed to a singular answer, “Can it be a coach? I would say Jay.” The LSU head coach seated beside her nearly choked on his water in surprise. Despite the success as both Georgia’s assistant head coach and now LSU, Clark didn’t even hesitate to mention the people who paved the way for him. “As a male in a female sport, I’ve been the benefactor of D-D, Sarah Patterson, Suzanne Yoculan, Greg Marsden, Val Kondos [Field], and others who came along ahead of me,” Clark said.

Olivia Dunne and the LSU Tigers made their 10th appearance in the NCAA championship, clinching first place in the semifinals with a score of 198.1125. Although Dunne didn’t compete this weekend, she cheered her teammates in her uniform. Clark also exclaimed, “If you really want to know the truth, I was praying to take it out of my hands… I mean, I was running my mouth in my cup.” From stunning routines to record-breaking triumphs, LSU Tigers gymnastics continues to dazzle and inspire, leaving an indelible mark on the world of collegiate gymnastics.

LSU celebrating historic victories and memorable matches

LSU Gymnastics made its first Super Six appearance in 2008 and repeated in 2009, 2013, and 2014. They secured second place in the 2016 and 2017 NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Championships after making the Super Six in both years. The LSU floor squad sealed the victory with a record-breaking score of 49.675, the highest in program history at the SEC Championships. 

The LSU Tigers win has spread a lot of inspiration to women who aspire to this particular sport. “I’m really hoping that more people will see this is a sport that’s competitive but realize you can’t be the best version of yourself if you tear down other people,” Chae Campbell of UCLA Gymnastic said. As these guys continue to shine on the grand stage, their remarkable performances serve as an inspiration to aspiring gymnasts, showcasing the enduring spirit of LSU Tigers.