Article By Frank Bergman
Jeff Webb, the businessman hailed as Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk’s mentor, has died unexpectedly after a freak accident while playing pickleball.
Webb was 76 when he passed away.
He is also credited with building modern competitive cheerleading into a national powerhouse.
Webb, founder of Varsity Spirit, suffered a severe head injury in the fall and was later taken off life support, according to reports.
His death marks the end of a decades-long career that reshaped an entire industry—and extended into conservative political circles.
Fatal Accident Ends Career of Cheerleading Architect
Varsity Spirit confirmed Webb’s death in a public tribute.
“Join us in honoring the life and legacy of Jeff Webb, founder of Varsity Spirit and modern cheerleading,” the organization said.
“His impact has built a community that will continue to inspire generations to come.”
Varsity Spirit President Bill Seely confirmed the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Webb “suffered a severe head injury” following the fall, Seely said.
After being hospitalized with significant trauma, Webb’s family made the decision to remove him from life support.
Built a Multi-Billion Dollar Cheer Empire
Webb transformed cheerleading from a sideline activity into a highly organized, competitive industry.
He launched the Universal Cheerleaders Association in 1974.
Later, he went on to build Varsity Spirit into a dominant force in the sport, influencing generations of athletes, coaches, and teams across the United States and globally.
A spokesperson for Varsity Brands, another company Webb founded, emphasized his impact.
“Jeff played a pivotal role in shaping cheerleading as it exists today and in building a community that has impacted generations of athletes, coaches, and teams,” the spokesperson said.
“In recent years, his contributions helped grow the sport both in the United States and globally, including his work with the International Cheer Union, which achieved full recognition by the International Olympic Committee in 2021,” the spokesperson added.
Ties to Conservative Movement and Charlie Kirk
Beyond business, Webb was also connected to conservative activism.
Webb was described as a mentor to Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk.
He spoke publicly following Kirk’s assassination.
“We may have lost a future president,” Webb said.
“Charlie Kirk had it all—charisma, faith, respect for everyone…
“Now, in his absence, tens of thousands of new chapters are rising.
“His legacy is just beginning.”
Webb later attended a White House ceremony where Kirk was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Legacy Spans Decades of Influence
Webb’s involvement in cheerleading began early, serving as a yell leader at the University of Oklahoma before turning the activity into a full-time career.
He helped professionalize and expand the sport nationwide, building an infrastructure that continues to dominate competitive cheer today.
Varsity Brands issued a final statement reflecting on his legacy.
“We extend our condolences to Jeff’s family and loved ones, and to the many across the spirit community who were influenced by his work,” the company said.
Webb’s influence stretched far beyond the sidelines, shaping an industry, mentoring leaders, and leaving behind a legacy that continues to grow even after his death.
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