LSU gymnastics coach Jay Clark has finally shed some light on the mysterious absence of star gymnast Olivia Dunne from the team’s lineup. Dunne, a junior and one of the most popular and talented gymnasts in the country, has been out of the lineup for three weeks, sparking concern and speculation among fans.
According to Coach Clark, Dunne has been dealing with a combination of physical and mental health issues that have forced her to take a break from competition. Clark revealed that Dunne has been struggling with a lingering ankle injury that has been causing her pain and discomfort.
“Olivia has been dealing with an ankle injury that she’s been trying to manage, but it’s been a challenge,” Clark said. “She’s been doing a great job of rehabbing and trying to get back to full strength, but it’s just taken a little bit longer than we had hoped.”
In addition to the physical injury, Clark also revealed that Dunne has been struggling with mental health issues, including anxiety and stress. Clark praised Dunne for her bravery and willingness to prioritize her mental health.
“Olivia is an amazing young woman, and she’s been dealing with some mental health challenges that have been affecting her ability to compete,” Clark said. “She’s been very open and honest with us about what she’s been going through, and we’re proud of her for prioritizing her mental health.”
Clark emphasized that Dunne’s health and well-being are the top priority, and that the team will not rush her back into competition until she is fully ready.
“We’re not going to push Olivia to come back before she’s ready,” Clark said. “We want to make sure that she’s 100% physically and mentally before we put her back out there. We’re going to take it one day at a time and make sure that she’s getting the care and support that she needs.”
Despite Dunne’s absence, the LSU gymnastics team has continued to thrive, with several other gymnasts stepping up to fill the void. However, Dunne’s return to the lineup will be a major boost to the team’s chances of winning a national championship.
“Olivia is an incredible gymnast, and we’re going to miss her while she’s out,” Clark said. “But we’re also excited to see her come back strong and healthy. We know that she’s going to make a big impact when she returns, and we’re looking forward to having her back out there competing with us.”
In the meantime, Dunne has been using her platform to raise awareness about mental health and the importance of prioritizing one’s well-being. She has been open and honest about her own struggles with anxiety and stress, and has encouraged her fans to do the same.
“I want to use my platform to help others feel more comfortable talking about their mental health,” Dunne said. “I know that it can be scary to open up about what you’re going through, but I want people to know that they’re not alone. We’re all in this together, and we need to support each other.”
Dunne’s bravery and willingness to speak out about mental health have made her an inspiration to countless fans, and her return to the lineup will be eagerly anticipated by gymnastics enthusiasts everywhere.