Haleigh Bryant of Everest showed up strong at 2017 J.O. Nationals in Indianapolis earlier this month, winning the Junior D all-around title with a 38.55. She also took first on vault and floor with a 9.85 and 9.675, respectively. Bryant is committed to LSU and has big goals for her future in both J.O. and NCAA.

For our ongoing series on the 2017 J.O. all-around champions, we caught up with Bryant to hear more about her impressive competition.

FloGymnastics: How was training going leading up to JOs? How did you feel going into the meet?

Bryant: I had been working very hard in the gym, and my training was going well leading up to JOs. My focus in the gym was to be consistent and perform quality routines.

I had a few really good meets going into JOs, and that helped my confidence a lot. 

What was your best event at JOs?

 My best event at JOs was vault, 9.85. I competed my front pike half and finished first. This was a new vault for me this year so I was very excited! 

Video via USA Gymnastics

Did you know you were a top contender for gold while you were competing?

I did not know where I was in the standings during the meet. I try not to look at other scores too much and only focus on my routines. I can't control what others are doing, and I knew if I hit my routines, I had a chance to win the all-around.  

What did it feel like when they called your name as national champion?

It has always been a goal of mine to win JOs and when they called my name as national champion, it felt amazing. I knew all my hard work had paid off! 

What are your future goals for gymnastics?

My future goals for gymnastics are to make JO national team again next year, and my long-term goal is to win a NCAA Championship with LSU!

Rapid-Fire Questions

What do you love most about gymnastics?

I love being a part of such a great team at Everest. I love learning new skills and competing. Gymnastics has taught me so much, and I'm so grateful for all the opportunities it is providing me.

Did you play any other sports growing up?

I played soccer and basketball when I was little but realized I enjoyed gymnastics the most. Also, being a gymnast, you really don't have time for other sports. 

What is your favorite healthy food and favorite junk food?

I love grilled chicken, broccoli, and corn on the cob! My favorite unhealthy food is definitely pizza!

Do you know what you want to be when you grow up?

When I grow up, I would like to go into sports broadcasting. I would love to work on the sidelines at gymnastics meets and other sporting events.  

What is your favorite season of the year -- why?

My favorite season of the year is summer because I love the warm weather and this is when my family goes on vacation.