Tiger Knox

It is not like a Master's champions playing golf at LSU. The level of gymnastics at the top few schools such as LSU are not that different from the gymnastic meets that determine who eventually represents the US in the world championships and Olympics. The athletes who compete who who are not in college still have meets that have many competitors who aren't medal worthy so they can prepare for the nationals and world meets. Many gymnasts in recent years choose to go to college instead, and word is that they almost universally love that team experience more than the isolation of training alone. Furthermore, in Rivera's case, she is only 16 and won her gold medal as being a part of the USA team. She did not win any medals individually, and has only started to compete outside the "Junior" level competition this past year. Competing for LSU will only serve to well prepare her if she chooses to try out for the Olympics in 2028. While doing this, she is likely to get the joy of being on a team competing for prestigious championships as well as getting a college education. Unlike golf, there is not a pro gymnastics league that she would have an option to do well into her 50s. This is her time, and i am sure she and her family thought LSU was a great fit rather than a step down.

That's too bad, both for the player and the team. Her experience and talent would have added to what is looking like possibly one of Beth's best teams. She should be able to get a medical redshirt if she wants to use it.