Charlie Kirk’s Mentor Passes Away Following Pickleball Fall

Bassyonni

Published: March 24, 2026 11:00 PM ET

Charlie Kirk’s Mentor Passes Away Following Pickleball Fall

Jeff Webb, a prominent figure in the competitive cheerleading landscape, has passed away at the age of 76. His death followed a serious pickleball accident that resulted in a head injury.

Impact on Cheerleading and Mentorship

Webb was the founder of Varsity Spirit, an organization that revolutionized cheerleading into a well-structured, global sport. Under his leadership, cheerleading gained immense popularity and legitimacy as a competitive activity.

According to internal communications from Varsity Spirit’s president, Webb sustained his injury during a pickleball game and remained on life support for two weeks. His family made the difficult decision to withdraw life support on Thursday.

Connection with Charlie Kirk

As a mentor, Webb played a crucial role in shaping the career of Turning Point USA’s Charlie Kirk. Their relationship began when Kirk was just 24 years old. Webb admired Kirk’s drive and leadership qualities, calling him mature and intelligent.

Turning Point USA recognized Webb’s contributions on social media, describing him as “a visionary” and “a dear friend.” Following Webb’s comment on the loss of a potential future president after Kirk’s tragic assassination, he attended a significant ceremony at the White House where Kirk was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Legacy in Cheerleading

Beyond his mentorship and personal connections, Webb’s impact on cheerleading is notable. Varsity Brands has highlighted him as a “pivotal” force in modern cheer. His efforts were instrumental in the International Cheer Union achieving full recognition from the International Olympic Committee in 2021.