Jeff Webb, a Texas businessman and influential figure in both athletics and conservative circles, has reportedly died at the age of 76 following a tragic accident, leaving behind a legacy that touched sports, business, and a generation of young leaders.
Webb passed away Friday, two weeks after suffering a serious head injury from a fall while playing pickleball, according to reports. He had remained on life support following the accident before ultimately succumbing to his injuries.
Turning Point USA, the organization founded by the late Charlie Kirk, paid tribute to Webb in a nearly 10-minute video, describing him as “a visionary who helped shape generations of young leaders” and a “dear friend” to both the group and Kirk himself.
“He will be greatly missed,” the organization said in a statement marking his passing.
Webb’s influence extended well beyond his business accomplishments. He played a key role as an early mentor to Kirk, meeting the conservative activist when he was just 24 years old. At the time, Webb said he was struck by Kirk’s maturity, intelligence, and leadership ability, qualities he believed set him apart from his peers.
“He had amazing drive,” Webb recalled in a past interview, adding that Kirk possessed “so many incredible leadership qualities.”
Over time, Webb became not only a mentor but also a strong supporter of Kirk’s work building a movement aimed at young conservatives. After Kirk’s death last year, Webb spoke publicly about his belief that the activist had the potential to rise even higher.
“He had it all — charisma, faith, respect for everyone,” Webb said, adding that the United States “may have lost a future president.”
Webb also described Kirk as a central figure within the MAGA movement, particularly for students who felt disconnected from traditional Republican politics. According to Webb, Kirk’s message helped bring together young conservatives who often felt isolated on college campuses and elsewhere.
“They were isolated and Charlie’s message and his charisma gave them definition,” Webb said. “It gave them hope. It made them feel that they were okay and what they stood for were good things.”
He noted that through Turning Point USA and its conferences, Kirk created a space where like-minded individuals could connect, building a sense of community across the country.
Webb remained close to Kirk’s legacy, attending the ceremony where the late activist was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Outside of politics, Webb was widely recognized as a transformative figure in the world of cheerleading. Often referred to as the “father of modern cheerleading,” he founded Varsity Spirit in 1974 at the age of 24.
Under his leadership, cheerleading evolved into a more athletic and competitive activity, incorporating acrobatic elements and gaining broader exposure. Webb helped bring cheer competitions to television audiences across the United States, elevating the sport’s visibility and influence.
His impact on the industry was so significant that colleagues even nicknamed his private jet “Cheer Force One,” a reflection of both his personality and his role in shaping the field.
A spokesperson for Varsity said Webb “played a pivotal role in shaping cheerleading as it exists today,” a testament to the lasting imprint he left on the sport.
Webb’s passing marks the loss of a figure who bridged multiple worlds — business, athletics, and conservative activism — at a time when leadership and mentorship remain in high demand. While his life ended in a sudden and unexpected way, those who knew him point to a legacy defined by influence, vision, and a commitment to building the next generation.
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