On March 19, 2026, the world of cheerleading and conservative activism faced a profound loss with the death of Jeff Webb, who passed away at the age of 76 following a tragic pickleball accident. Webb suffered a severe head injury from a fall while playing the sport he enjoyed, leading to a two-week battle on life support before his family made the heart-wrenching decision to withdraw it.
Webb, known for founding Varsity Spirit, played a pivotal role in shaping modern cheerleading. His contributions were instrumental in the International Cheer Union achieving full recognition by the International Olympic Committee in 2021, a milestone that underscored his influence in the sport.
His connection to Charlie Kirk, the founder of Turning Point USA, began when Kirk was just 24 years old. Over the years, Webb became a mentor to Kirk, guiding him through the complexities of leadership and community engagement. Kirk often spoke highly of Webb, who he regarded as a visionary and a dear friend.
Tragically, Kirk himself was shot and killed at the age of 31 during his American Comeback Tour on September 10, 2025. Webb had attended the posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony for Kirk at the White House, highlighting their close relationship and shared commitment to their causes.
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.” This sentiment was echoed by Varsity Brands, which noted, “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.”
Webb’s death not only marks the loss of a significant figure in cheerleading but also a mentor who inspired many young leaders, including Kirk. His impact has built a community that will continue to inspire generations to come.
Survived by his wife, children, brother, sister, and two grandchildren, Webb leaves behind a legacy that transcends his immediate family. His contributions to cheerleading and mentorship will be remembered by many.
As the community mourns, the words of Webb resonate: “we may have lost a future president,” reflecting the potential he saw in Kirk and the vision they shared for the future.
