FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – JEFFERSON, IA – APRIL 16, 2024 – For over 40 years, AAI has proudly presented the AAI Award, honoring the most outstanding senior female gymnast in the country. Often likened to the Heisman Trophy for Women’s Gymnastics, this prestigious award has become a symbol of excellence in the sport. This year the winner was announced at the 2024 NCAA Women’s Gymnastics Banquet in Fort Worth, TX.

“The AAI Award continues to evolve and recognize outstanding athletes year after year.” said Lisa Ebersole, Sr. Marketing Manager for AAI. “It’s more than just an honor; it’s a testament to the dedication and passion for the sport. We’re thrilled to see the AAI Award continue its legacy of honoring excellence in the years to come.”

The AAI Award is a coaches’ award in which AAI facilitates. Every year, the head coaches are asked to nominate the candidate(s) of their choice. This year 50 talented athletes were nominated! A number that should not go unnoticed and AAI congratulates all the athletes nominated.

After the nominations are in, the coaches then vote to narrow the field to the top 6 athletes. A final vote is cast to determine the overall winner.

2024 Finalists:

  • Luisa Blanco, University of Alabama (2-time finalist)
  • Haleigh Bryant, Louisiana State University
  • Audrey Davis, University of Oklahoma
  • Maile O’Keefe, University of Utah (2-time finalist)
  • Gabby Wilson, University of Michigan
  • Raena Worley, University of Kentucky (2-time finalist)
2024 AAI Award Winner

Haleigh Bryant

Louisiana State University

Haleigh Bryant from Louisiana State University took home the 2024 AAI Award Title. This prestigious accolade is a testament to Haleigh’s outstanding contribution to gymnastics throughout her career. Congratulations to her and her coaches!

AAI is proud to be the Official Equipment Supplier to the NCAA Gymnastics championships and recognizes the achievements and dedication of all gymnasts within the sport.

About the NCAA

The NCAA is a diverse association of more than 1,100 member colleges and universities that prioritize academics, well-being and fairness to create greater opportunities for nearly half a million student- athletes each year. The NCAA provides a pathway to higher education and beyond for student-athletes pursuing academic goals and competing in NCAA sports. More than 54,000 student-athletes experience the pinnacle of intercollegiate athletics by competing in NCAA championships each year.

Visit ncaa.org and ncaa.com for more details about the Association and the corporate partnerships that support the NCAA and its student-athletes.

About American Athletic, Inc.

American Athletic, Inc. (AAI) is an iconic brand that has a rich history for manufacturing and supplying world-class gymnastics equipment for all levels since 1954. Headquartered in Jefferson, Iowa, the company operates three facilities totaling over 240,000 square feet and employs about 100 people. AAI is the official supplier and partner to USA Gymnastics and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), exclusive equipment supplier of the Texas High School Gymnastics Coaches Association (THSGCA) as well as a proud partner with the Federation Internationale De Gymnastique (FIG).

AAI supplies over 500+ events each year with the help of their trusted dealer network and takes pride in their accomplishments while continually pursuing perfection in quality, service and supplying equipment to grow the sport and our future athletes. For more information on AAI, visit www.americanathletic.com.