Renowned cheerleading pioneer and influential figure in conservative politics, Jeff Webb, passed away on 19 March at the age of 76. Webb, who was the founder of Varsity Spirit and is credited with revolutionising modern cheerleading, died two weeks after sustaining a serious head injury during a pickleball game. Following the incident, his family made the difficult decision to remove him from life support.
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Varsity Spirit announced Webb’s passing, releasing a poignant tribute that highlighted his dedication to the evolution of cheerleading and his profound influence on the sport. “Join us in honouring the life and legacy of Jeff Webb,” the organisation stated on social media. “His impact has built a community that will continue to inspire generations to come.”
Bill Seely, President of Varsity Spirit, confirmed the circumstances surrounding Webb’s accident, detailing that he had suffered a fall during the popular racquet sport. The injury turned fatal, leading to his eventual passing. Seely remarked on Webb’s significant role in shaping contemporary cheerleading, emphasising how his efforts contributed to the growth of cheer as a sport both in the United States and internationally.
Beyond his achievements in cheerleading, Webb was also a mentor to Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, a conservative non-profit that promotes right-wing values on college campuses. After Kirk’s tragic death in a shooting incident at a speaking engagement in September 2025, Webb reflected fondly on their relationship. He recalled meeting Kirk when he was just 24 in Atlanta and described him as an individual with an extraordinary charisma and a delightful sense of humour.
Turning Point USA paid tribute to Webb, calling him “a visionary who helped shape generations of young leaders.” The organisation underscored his deep belief in community and national pride, describing him as “a dear friend to Turning Point USA and Charlie.” In the wake of Kirk’s passing, Webb expressed his sorrow, stating that the loss felt immeasurable and that he believed Kirk had the potential to become a future leader of the nation.
Jeff Webb’s legacy as a transformative entrepreneur extended beyond cheerleading into various other spheres, notably as a key figure in advancing conservative ideals among young people. In their statement following his death, Webb’s children shared a personal insight into their father’s life, portraying him not only as a legendary entrepreneur but also as a devoted coach, mentor, and cherished family member. “To us, he was our soccer coach and on-demand comedian, our mentor and father-daughter dance partner, our solace and our source of strength,” they expressed.
As a significant figure in the cheerleading world, Webb’s contributions have left an indelible mark on the industry, which now boasts a multibillion-dollar valuation and continues to inspire countless athletes and teams. His efforts to cultivate a community within the cheerleading sector will undoubtedly resonate for generations to come.
Jeff Webb is survived by his wife, Gina; children, Jeffrey and Caroline; brother, Greg; sister, Jenna; and two grandchildren. His passing represents a substantial loss to both the cheerleading community and the circles of conservative activism, where his influence and mentorship positively shaped the lives of many.