By Ashleigh Gnat via LSU Gymnastics

Dear LSU,

As our 2017 season comes to an end and graduation is in sight, I am able to reflect on what an amazing four years I have had at this University. Being an LSU athlete has been the opportunity of a lifetime and I am so blessed to be a part of such an amazing athletics program.

From the moment I stepped on campus it was undeniable that this was a family. It's a roaring sea of purple and gold, all in for every team. I remember my first time wearing those colors, running in to the PMAC as a wide-eyed freshman. And also my final time… a standing ovation next to my sisters who have been with me every step of the way. Every memory in that arena is one that I will cherish forever. Thank you, fans, for filling our arena and cheering on the Fighting Tigers as our program continues to grow.



I can honestly say that I would not be the person that I am without our coaches and our support staff. They have taught me the importance of excellence in the classroom, in the community, and on the competition floor. They pour their soul into making sure that our team is able to make the most of our student-athlete experience. I am humbled and honored to have been coached by such amazing people. Inside and outside of the gym we are a family and the relationships I have with each one of them I will have forever. Thank you to my teammates; when I arrived on campus with a group of strangers, you have so quickly become my sisters. I can't thank you guys enough for the support, for endless hugs and high-fives, for the behind the scenes late night studying, or drying my eyes on Senior Night. But, most importantly thank you for being genuine. The love that I have for each one of you is endless and I can't wait to see how far y'all will go in life. Although these four years are short, we've formed a bond that is timeless.

I would be remiss to end this letter without thanking our entire athletics department and TAF, for guaranteeing an amazing four years for student-athletes and providing us with every opportunity to excel, for pouring so much effort into our program in particular, from our amazing new facility to the huge production that is Friday Nights in the PMAC.

Four years ago, I would have never imagined the incredible experiences I have had on this campus; I will always cherish these memories and I will always bleed purple and gold. Thank you to my family and friends for providing me with all the support, but most importantly to God be the glory for even the opportunity to step on this campus. All Heart all the time.

Forever LSU,
Ashleigh Gnat


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