Charlie Kirk's Mentor Jeff Webb Dies At 76 In Freak Accident

Jeff Webb, known as the founder of modern cheerleading and a mentor to the late Charlie Kirk, has died following a freak accident. He was 76 years old.

Varsity Spirit, the cheerleading company he founded in 1974, announced the news on Thursday with a video posted to Instagram highlighting his legacy in the sport. They wrote in the caption:

“Join us in honoring the life and legacy of Jeff Webb, founder of Varsity Spirit and modern cheerleading. His impact has built a community that will continue to inspire generations to come. 1950-2026

See the tribute (below):

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A post shared by Varsity Spirit (@varsityspirit)

What happened to Jeff? Cheer Daily received an email from Varsity Spirit President Bill Seely, who claimed the businessman fell while playing pickleball two weeks before his death. He allegedly suffered a severe head injury, was hospitalized, and put on life support. His family later decided to take him off it, and he passed away. A Varsity Brands spokesperson added in a statement:

“Varsity Brands is saddened by the passing of Jeff Webb, founder of Varsity Spirit and modern cheerleading. 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. In recent years, his contributions helped grow the sport both in the United States and globally, including his work with the International Cheer Union, which achieved full recognition by the International Olympic Committee in 2021. We extend our condolences to Jeff’s family and loved ones, and to the many across the spirit community who were influenced by his work.”

In addition to his longtime work in the cheerleading industry, which included acting as the president of the International Cheer Union, Jeff also served as a mentor to Charlie, the conservative commentator and Turning Point USA founder who was shot and killed during an event at Utah Valley University last year. The organization posted a tribute video to him on X (Twitter) on Friday, saying:

“In memory of Jeff Webb. A visionary who helped shape generations of young leaders and believed deeply in the power of community and country. A dear friend to Turning Point USA and Charlie. He will be greatly missed.”

In memory of Jeff Webb.

A visionary who helped shape generations of young leaders and believed deeply in the power of community and country.

A dear friend to Turning Point USA and Charlie. He will be greatly missed. pic.twitter.com/GKvEuHrccZ

— Turning Point USA (@TPUSA) March 20, 2026