Jeff Webb, founder of Varsity Spirit who helped turn cheerleading into an IOC-recognized sport and mentored it The late right-wing activist Charlie KirkHe died. He was 76 years old.
A family spokesman said that Webb died Thursday in Memphis, Tennessee, after a “tragic accident.” The family refused to comment on the details.
Webb founded the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) in 1974 with the goal of changing the narrative around cheerleading, increasing its visibility and turning it into a globally recognized sport. His efforts included new uniform concepts, educational camps and training programs, and the creation of the first national cheerleading competition. These efforts evolved into the Varsity Spirit.
“He helped pioneer the use of advanced gymnastics and stunts in cheerleading routines, launched the first national cheerleading championships, and brought the sport to national audiences through televised broadcasts on ESPN,” the spokesman said in a statement. “He also played a central role in developing the first safety guidelines and helped create key governing bodies, including the U.S. All Star Association and USA Cheer.”
Webb is survived by his wife, Gina, and children, Jeffrey and Caroline.
“Our father was, at his core, a man of inexhaustible energy, and he poured that energy into everything he did, from revolutionary cheerleading to his never-ending — and ever-growing — list of activities,” Webb’s children wrote in a statement. “He brought the same spirit of dedication and encouragement to being a father and grandfather. To most, he is a legendary businessman — to us, he was our football coach and in-demand comedian, our mentor and father-daughter dance partner, and our solace and source of strength.”
He was also a conservative activist described as a mentor to Kirk, who was shot and killed at Utah Valley University on September 10.
Kirk’s company, Turning Point USA, posted a video in memory of Webb On social media.
“In memory of Jeff Webb,” the post read. “A visionary who helped shape generations of young leaders and believed deeply in the power of community and country. A dear friend of Turning Point USA and Charlie. He will be greatly missed.”
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