“He will be greatly missed,” stated Turning Point USA in a heartfelt tribute to Jeff Webb, who died 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. His passing marks a significant loss for the cheerleading community and beyond.
Known as the father of modern cheerleading, Webb founded Varsity Spirit in 1974, a company that transformed the cheerleading landscape. Under his leadership, Varsity Spirit went public in 1992 and was sold to a private equity firm for $1.5 billion in 2014.
Webb’s influence extended beyond cheerleading; he was a mentor to Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA. Webb attended the ceremony where Kirk was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, underscoring their close relationship.
Reflecting on Kirk’s impact, 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.” This statement highlights Webb’s belief in the potential of young leaders.
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 advocacy for cheerleading to be recognized as an Olympic sport further illustrates his commitment to the field.
Webb’s legacy is profound; he played a pivotal role in shaping cheerleading as it exists today. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the sport and the lives of many.
As the community mourns his loss, Webb’s family and friends remember him not only for his achievements but for his unwavering support of those around him. “His legacy is just beginning,” Webb once said, a testament to the lasting impact he has made.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any memorial services or tributes planned in his honor.
