“He will be greatly missed,” stated Turning Point USA in a heartfelt tribute to Jeff Webb, who passed away at the age of 76 after a freak pickleball accident. Webb suffered a severe head injury from a fall while playing the sport, leading to two weeks on life support before his family made the difficult decision to remove him.
Known as the father of modern cheerleading, Webb founded Varsity Spirit in 1974, a company that transformed the cheerleading landscape. His vision and leadership played a pivotal role in shaping cheerleading as it exists today, advocating for its recognition as an Olympic sport.
Webb was not only a business leader but also a mentor to many, including Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA. Their relationship began when Kirk was just 24, and Webb became an early supporter of his endeavors. In a poignant reflection, Webb once remarked, “Charlie Kirk had it all—charisma, faith, respect for everyone…Now in his absence, tens of thousands of new chapters are rising.”
Turning Point USA described Webb as a “visionary who helped shape generations of young leaders and believed deeply in the power of community and country.” His impact extended beyond cheerleading, influencing countless young individuals who looked up to him as a guiding light.
Webb attended the ceremony where Kirk was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, highlighting the deep bond they shared. His commitment to nurturing future leaders was evident in his every endeavor.
Varsity Spirit went public in 1992 and was sold to a private equity firm for $1.5 billion in 2014, a testament to Webb’s successful vision. Even after stepping away from the company in 2020, his legacy continued to inspire.
As the community mourns his loss, many reflect on the profound influence Webb had on their lives. “His legacy is just beginning,” Webb once stated, a sentiment that resonates now more than ever.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any upcoming tributes or memorials, but the outpouring of love and respect for Webb’s contributions to cheerleading and mentorship is evident across social media and community gatherings.
