Jeff Webb, Cheerleading Pioneer, Dies at 76

Jeff Webb, the founder of Varsity Spirit and a key figure in transforming cheerleading into a global sport, died on Thursday in Memphis, Tennessee, at the age of 76. His death followed a fall during a pickleball game that resulted in a severe head injury.

Webb was hospitalized after the accident, which occurred about two weeks prior to his passing. He was placed on life support, and his family ultimately decided to remove it, according to statements from Varsity Spirit and a family spokesperson. The organization confirmed the news, noting that Webb's contributions had shaped the sport and built a lasting community for athletes, coaches, and teams.

A Memphis resident, Webb is survived by his wife, Gina; their son, Jeffrey; daughter, Caroline Webb Mason, who is married to Brett Mason and has two children; brother Greg; and sister Jenna. The family has kept a low public profile, though Caroline has occasionally joined her father at events over the years.

Webb's career began in 1974 when he established the Universal Cheerleading Association with the goal of elevating the activity's visibility and standards. This initiative led to the creation of Varsity Spirit and innovations such as...