LSU Gymnastics Celebrates First National Championship at Annual Banquet

The LSU Gymnastics team made history this year by clinching the program’s first national championship, and the celebration continued at their annual banquet at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Baton Rouge. The banquet, attended by over 500 guests, was a night filled with recognition and awards for the team’s outstanding achievements throughout the 2024 season.

Head coach Jay Clark and his coaching staff presented various awards to the athletes, highlighting their dedication and hard work both on and off the competition floor. Senior honorees, including Elena Arenas, Sierra Ballard, and Haleigh Bryant, were recognized for their contributions to the program over the years.

One of the standout awards of the night was the OG Eye of the Tiger Award, presented to Kai Rivers for her selflessness and support for her teammates. Additionally, sophomore Ashley Cowan received the 10.0 Award for her perfect 10 work ethic, while freshman Amari Drayton was honored with the Consistency Award for her unwavering performance throughout the season.

Kiya Johnson was named the Returner of the Year for her dedication and hard work in overcoming an injury from the previous season. Freshman Konnor McClain was recognized as the Newcomer of the Year for her immediate impact on the competition floor, earning multiple All-SEC and All-America honors.

The night concluded with senior Haleigh Bryant being named the MVP, capping off a historic season where she claimed the NCAA All-Around Championship and multiple other accolades. Bryant’s exceptional performance throughout the season solidified her as a standout gymnast and a true leader for the LSU Gymnastics team.

Overall, the banquet was a night of celebration and recognition for the LSU Gymnastics team, as they reflected on their incredible journey to the program’s first national championship. The team’s success was a testament to their hard work, dedication, and unwavering support from Tiger Nation.