Cheerleading Pioneer and Conservative Activist Jeff Webb Dies After Pickleball Mishap
A significant figure in the world of cheerleading and a notable conservative activist, Jeff Webb, has passed away at the age of 76. Mr Webb succumbed to a head injury sustained approximately two weeks prior in an unexpected pickleball incident. He had been hospitalised following the accident, and his family ultimately made the difficult decision to remove him from life support.
Mr Webb was widely recognised as a trailblazer in modern cheerleading. In 1974, he established Varsity Spirit, an organisation that grew to become the largest of its kind in the United States. His contributions were instrumental in shaping the sport into what it is today, influencing countless athletes, coaches, and teams across generations.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jeff Webb was also a committed conservative political activist. He was known to be a mentor to Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA. Following the assassination of Charlie Kirk on September 10th, Mr Webb spoke publicly on various platforms, reflecting on the profound impact Kirk had left behind. In a statement to Real America’s Voice shortly after the shooting, Webb expressed his grief, stating, “We may have lost a future president. Charlie Kirk had it all—charisma, faith, respect for everyone.” He further commented on Kirk’s legacy, noting that “tens of thousands of new chapters are rising. His legacy is just beginning.” Mr Webb was also present at the White House when Charlie Kirk was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Turning Point USA commemorated Mr Webb with a nine-minute tribute video shared on X (formerly Twitter). The video’s caption described him as “A visionary who helped shape generations of young leaders and believed deeply in the power of community and country.” It further acknowledged him as “A dear friend to Turning Point USA and Charlie. He will be greatly missed.”
A spokesperson for Varsity Brands released a statement expressing their sorrow at Mr Webb’s passing. “Varsity Brands is saddened by the passing of Jeff Webb, founder of Varsity Spirit and modern cheerleading,” the statement read. It highlighted his pivotal role in shaping cheerleading and building a community that has profoundly impacted athletes and teams. The statement also noted his recent work in expanding the sport globally, including his efforts with the International Cheer Union, which achieved full recognition from the International Olympic Committee in 2021. The company extended its condolences to Mr Webb’s family, loved ones, and the wider spirit community.
From Dallas Roots to Global Cheerleading Influence
Jeff Webb’s journey began in Dallas, Texas, where he grew up as the son of an accountant. His involvement in cheerleading started during his senior year of high school, and he continued his passion as a yell leader at the University of Oklahoma.
At the young age of 24, Webb founded the Universal Cheerleading Association, which would evolve into the highly influential Varsity Spirit organisation. This company was later sold in 2014 for a substantial $1.5 billion to a private equity firm.
Post-Varsity Spirit, Mr Webb dedicated his efforts to the International Cheer Union, an organisation he also founded. A significant ambition driving his work was the aspiration to see cheerleading recognised on the Olympic stage. When the sport received provisional recognition from the International Olympic Committee in 2016, Webb described the announcement as “the culmination of my life’s work,” a testament to his lifelong dedication.
Jeff Webb is survived by his wife, Gina Webb, his son, Jeffrey, his daughter, Caroline Webb Mason, his brother, Greg Webb, his sister, Jenna Webb Hill, and his two grandchildren. His passing marks the end of an era for the cheerleading community and a loss for those who valued his conservative advocacy.
