Freshman Gymnast at LSU Exemplifies Academic and Athletic Success

Categories: College University Athletics

Young gymnast performing on the uneven bars at a collegiate event.

News Summary

Lexi Zeiss, a freshman gymnast at LSU, shines both on the mat and in academics. Honored as a top student-athlete, she balances impressive gymnastics performances with notable scholarly achievements, securing a spot on the Dean’s List. Overcoming injuries and embracing teamwork, Lexi demonstrates resilience and dedication as she prepares for upcoming championships, showcasing her unique journey from a determined student to an accomplished gymnast.

LSU Freshman Lexi Zeiss Shines Bright in Gymnastics and Academics

In Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Lexi Zeiss is quickly making a name for herself, not just as a talented gymnast but also as an academically gifted student. As a freshman at LSU, Lexi is one of five newcomers on the gymnastics team this year and is already leaving her mark in both sports and studies.

Winning Recognition as a Top Student-Athlete

Lexi’s incredible skills on the mat have earned her the honor of being named one of the March 2025 CCACSA student-athletes of the month. This recognition comes after she achieved a remarkable season-high score of 9.925 on the uneven bars in a meet against George Washington University. But that’s not all—during a thrilling victory against Auburn, Lexi also posted a score of 9.900 on vault. Her athleticism and hard work have certainly set her apart early in her collegiate career.

Academic Achievements Shine Bright

In addition to her athletic prowess, Lexi has proven herself academically. She was on the Dean’s List for her remarkable grades in Fall 2024, showcasing her ability to juggle the demanding schedules of both a student and an athlete. Lexi’s relentless dedication to her studies is something that Taylor Dennehy, the Assistant Director with the CCACSA, has praised, highlighting the hardworking nature of this exceptional young woman.

A Family’s Pride and a Supportive Background

Lexi’s father, Jess Zeiss, has expressed immense pride in his daughter’s achievements, especially valuing her academic recognition as one of her proudest accomplishments. The Zeiss family has a strong sporting background; they even relocated from Nebraska to Minnesota so Lexi could train with the renowned Twin City Twisters gymnastics program. Her path hasn’t been easy—she was primarily educated online for the last three years, but Lexi has deftly navigated her first year of college while balancing gymnastics and her studies.

Team Player and Growth in College Gymnastics

One of the intriguing aspects of Lexi’s transition to college gymnastics is her shift from focusing solely on her own routines to competing as part of a team. This was a big change from the elite gymnastics world she was accustomed to. Lexi’s mother, Dana, reminded her that it’s important she doesn’t define herself solely through gymnastics, emphasizing the need for a balanced identity. Lexi has embraced the team dynamic, showcasing her skills while supporting her teammates, a quality that sets the tone for a positive environment.

Overcoming Injuries with Resilience

Like many athletes, Lexi has faced challenges—she suffered a serious ankle injury during a vault in Germany. This setback threatened her season but also provided an opportunity for growth. With the guidance of a mindset coach, Lexi worked through mental hurdles associated with her injury, developing a strategy she calls “Good Enough,” which emphasizes progress over perfection. This approach helped her earn honors at the 2023 Winter Cup before her injury struck, reinforcing the idea that achieving personal bests is more about consistent effort than hitting unattainable standards.

Looking Ahead to Championships

Now, Lexi is gearing up for her first collegiate championship at the SEC Championship, where she will compete against formidable rivals like the Florida Gators. Coach Jay Clark’s decision to allow Lexi to lead off on bars and vault speaks volumes about the level of trust and confidence her team has in her abilities. The support from her teammates and coaches is creating a warm and reassuring atmosphere, making it a fulfilling experience for Lexi.

With her family’s unwavering support—having never missed a meet in Lexi’s life—they are thrilled to see her rediscover her passion for the sport she loves. As Lexi continues to light up the gymnastics floor at LSU and strives for her dreams, her unique journey from a dedicated student to an impressive gymnast shows just how much can be achieved with hard work and a little help.