“Join us in honoring the life and legacy of Jeff Webb, founder of Varsity Spirit and modern cheerleading,” Varsity Spirit wrote in a statement following his tragic passing.
Jeff Webb, who died in an accident at the age of 76, was a transformative figure in the world of cheerleading. He founded Varsity Spirit in 1974, turning cheerleading from a sideline activity into a multi-billion-dollar global competitive sport.
As the president of the International Cheer Union, Webb played a crucial role in the sport’s recognition by the International Olympic Committee in 2021. His vision and leadership have influenced generations of athletes, coaches, and teams.
“Varsity Brands is saddened by the passing of Jeff Webb, founder of Varsity Spirit and modern cheerleading,” the organization stated. They extended their condolences to Webb’s family and the many in the spirit community who were impacted by his work.
Under Webb’s guidance, Varsity Brands, which includes Varsity Spirit, was sold to Bain Capital in 2018 for an estimated $2.9 billion. His contributions helped the company generate annual revenues projected to reach $3 billion by 2025.
Webb’s estimated net worth was likely north of $100 million, reflecting his significant impact on the industry. He was married to Cheri R Ganong and had two children, although details surrounding the accident that led to his death have not been revealed.
“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,” Varsity Brands added in their tribute.
Webb’s legacy is profound, as he began working with the National Cheerleaders Association while still in school, showcasing his lifelong dedication to the sport.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact cause of death, but the cheerleading community mourns the loss of a true pioneer.
