Varsity Legends

Jeff Webb founded Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) in 1974 with the goal of transforming cheerleading into the dynamic, athletic, high profile activity it is today. His vision of incorporating athleticism and entertainment with the traditional crowd leadership role created a new style of cheerleading that caused the activity to explode in popularity from the 1980's into the 21st century.

As his camp organization grew throughout the 1980's, he added a unique and cutting-edge uniform concept, as well as created the first actual national competition for cheerleaders. These three elements -- educational camps, uniforms, and competitions -- were combined to form Varsity Spirit.

Webb is known as a visionary and an innovator. From the development of new stunts, to the addition of exciting high performance uniforms, and finally to actually creating the format for modern cheerleading competitions, his leadership has propelled Varsity Spirit from its humble beginning to the global powerhouse organization it is today.

In addition to directing Varsity Spirit's meteoric rise as a business and educational organization, Jeff is responsible for bringing cheerleading to television through Varsity's 32 year relationship with ESPN. Webb has also served as host and expert commentator on more than 200 cheerleading broadcasts on the network.

Jeff is also credited with founding the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators (AACCA), the United States All Star Federation (USASF), USA Cheer, and the International Cheer Union, all governing organizations focused on supporting cheerleading's healthy growth and development in the U.S. and around the world.

Today, Jeff serves as the Founder and President of the International Cheer Union.

Greg Webb was one of the original instructors for the Universal Cheerleaders Association in 1974. Over the next 30 years, Greg led Varsity's camp division as it grew from 3,000 participants to almost 200,000 participants.

Greg was instrumental in increasing the overall safety of the activity and the development of structured educational opportunities for coaches. He helped to establish the teaching techniques and stunt progressions that are still used today. Greg also worked with the National Federation of State High School Associations to write the first set of cheerleading safety rules.

Greg helped organize the founding of the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators (AACCA), and led the team that wrote and published the AACCA Cheerleading Safety Manual, still recognized as the standard of care for all cheerleading activities.

Greg led the establishment of the UCA Children's Charities fund that has donated more than one million dollars in efforts to fight childhood disease. He was also named to the advisory board for the Women's Sports Foundation and persuaded the Foundation to embrace cheerleading as a legitimate athletic activity for young women. He also led the formation of the Organization of Spirit Industry Providers (OSIP).

Today Greg is the President of Spirited Sales Leaders, an organization he created to assist former cheerleaders establish sales careers.

Lawrence R. Herkimer was the founder of the National Cheerleaders Association, the nation's first professional cheerleading training organization.

He held the first organized cheerleading camp in Huntsville, Texas in 1948. His signature jump while a cheerleader at SMU in the 1940's -- called the ``Herkie`` -- became one of the most popular jumps for cheerleaders nationwide and is still performed around the world today. NCA remains one of the largest and most influential camp and competition organizations.

Herkie also developed many ``firsts`` in cheerleading. He founded the first ready-made uniform company, Cheerleader Supply Company, in 1951 to meet the uniform needs of cheerleaders (currently known as Cheerleader&DanzTeam). In the mid 1950's, Herkie created the PomPon and held the patent for the stick with colored paper designed to attract the attention of fans in the stands and to be more visible on the newly introduced ``color`` television. Herkie also created the Spirit Stick in 1957 as a reminder to teams of the importance of positive attitudes, leadership, and supporting the team and leading the fans. The Spirit Stick is still one of the most cherished awards in cheerleading.

Herkimer will always be revered and loved by cheerleaders, coaches, and former instructors nationwide.

At 19, Kris joined Jeff Webb to become one of the first 20 instructors for the Universal Cheerleaders Association. A former University of Arkansas cheerleader, Kris has been an influential leader and has played a significant role in the development of cheerleading and dance team at Varsity.

Kris collaborated on the first cheerleading routine to music – a UCA college demo routine in 1976 to the theme from the movie Rocky. This routine was the actual predecessor to today's competition performances. This concept propelled cheerleading into the entertainment arena, which eventually led to the creation of the modern cheerleading competition format.

Kris organized and administered the first National High School Cheerleading Championship in 1980, along with the first College Cheerleading National Championship in 1983 and the first National Dance Team Championship in 1985. As the leader of the Special Events division at Varsity in the 80's, she developed additional performance opportunities for cheerleaders as well, including the first UCA All Star trip to London for the New Year's Day Parade in 1985.

After 43 years, Kris retired from her role as Executive Vice President at Varsity Brands and the Executive Producer of the National Championships on ESPN.

Robert Olmstead was the founder of the United Spirit Association (USA), the west coast camp and competition organization widely recognized as the creators and promoters of the ``West Coast Style`` of cheerleading and dance.

Coming from a family of vaudeville entertainers, it was perhaps no surprise that Robert Olmstead would be skilled at walking the high wire, twirling the baton, leading marching bands, and paving the way for today's cheerleaders and dancers. While in college, he served as the drum major for both the San Jose State and the University of Santa Clara bands. In 1948, a new football team in San Francisco called the Forty Niners asked the well-known band leader and twirler to produce halftime shows for their games. Robert formed the 49ers Majorettes, the first NFL female performing group that incorporated dance and props, like pompons. This group became a forerunner of today's dance-drill teams.

In 1950, Robert and his wife, Edith, decided to hold a camp to train the 49ers Majorettes for the upcoming football season. Over the next 40 years, Robert and Edith Olmstead created California Specialty Camps, which in 1976 became the United Spirit Association. The curriculum grew to include some of the first training programs for cheerleaders, songleaders, drill teams, drum majors, mascots, lettergirls, and tall flags.

Expressing a philosophy that was ahead of its time, the USA camp curriculums were based on the idea that every student should feel a sense of accomplishment and success and student activities were an important vehicle for teaching leadership skills and enhancing self-esteem. He believed that every camp should provide a positive experience where ``Number One Means Everyone.``

Robert posthumously received the Organization of Spirit Industry Providers (OSIP) Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007.

Former Ohio State University cheerleader and UCA Instructor, Kraig Tallman was Varsity Fashions' first full-time designer. Kraig revolutionized the look of cheerleaders everywhere in the late 70's. Replacing uniforms that were often locally made and boxy in design, Kraig's new custom fitted uniforms, bold color blocks, and unique athletic striping reinforced the idea of cheerleaders being not only ``cool`` and trendy, but athletes in their own right. Kraig was also instrumental in the design and development of Varsity's numerous award-winning catalogs, which helped introduce cheerleading to a broader, mainstream audience.

Kraig's designs brought a sense of the excitement and sophistication of the fashion world to cheerleading. His influence can still be seen today in almost all of the latest designs that are worn by school and all star cheerleaders. Kraig's talents and vision transformed spirit fashions, and many of the classic looks he created are also still worn by many of today's top collegiate squads.

In 2001, the Ohio State University Board of Trustees established the Kraig A. Tallman Memorial Scholarship Fund in Cheerleading, endowed by gifts from his friends and family in Kraig's memory to supplement the costs of a student athlete who is a member of the varsity cheerleading squad.

Boyd was first hired by NCA as a cheerleader for Midland High School. He worked summers and weekends for NCA for four years. In 1974, Kline became one of the five founders of UCA, joining Jeff Webb in raising money to start the company. After graduating from SMU, Kline had a successful career in the oil business. In 1989, Kline moved to Memphis to become Varsity’s General Manager and to head up Varsity Spirit Fashion. He assembled a team to support Kraig Tallman’s unique designs and to source and produce new stretch fabrics, lettering styles and color matching to reflect the increased athleticism in cheerleading.

Under Kline, Varsity built relationships with some of the world’s most respected names in sports including Nike, Capezio and Body Wrappers. Kline eventually returned to Texas to re-enter the oil business but left behind a dedicated team that has changed the look of cheerleading and dance uniforms.

George Gallup first met Jeff Webb in the early 1980s, when Gallup served as the president of TVS, a syndicator of American sports programming. After accompanying Jeff to a summer cheerleading camp, George catalyzed the growth and popularity of cheerleading by televising the UCA National High School Cheerleading Championship on TVS. In the mid-1980s, George left TVS to become the Vice President of Programming of a small, new network called ESPN. At ESPN, George continued to televise the National High School Cheerleading Championship, helping the competition reach over one million homes.

After four years at ESPN, George went on to fill several important roles within the media industry, including two VP titles at NBC (one in radio and one in television). He eventually went on to create Gallup Broadcasting, which produced everything from jump rope competitions to dog shows. George ran Gallup Broadcasting until his mid-seventies. In his retirement, George remained active in the industry as a consultant.

Jerry Starnes started his cheerleading career at Jacksonville State University. He became a UCA instructor in 1975 and immediately stood out for his creativity; campers knew him (and loved him) for his ability to come up with creative boogie chants. Soon after becoming an instructor, Jerry became an incredibly influential choreographer, helping to revolutionize the cheerleading routine. In fact, Jerry collaborated with Kris Sheppard on several landmark routines, including the first cheerleading routine to music. He even selected the first background music – the “Rocky” theme. In 1977, Jerry also assisted Kris in choreographing the first college demo. Jerry eventually moved to Salt Lake City, but continued working with Kris Shepherd to collaborate on college demos for years to come.

Lance and Carol Wagers both embarked on their cheerleading careers during college (at the University of Colorado and Oklahoma State University, respectively). In the early 1970s, Lance and Carol worked as camp instructors for National Cheerleaders Association under founder Lawrence Herkimer.

Through the years, Carol made her way up the NCA ranks from Instructor to Head Instructor to Personnel Director to Senior Vice President. Lance spent 22 summers working for NCA, and eventually took on a full-time position alongside Carol. When Herkimer retired, Lance took over as the President of NCA.

Together, Lance and Carol expanded NCA to include more summer camps and regional, national and international competitions. The Wagers are responsible for introducing cheerleading to several countries, and modernizing it in many others. In the early 1990s, Lance and Carol also created the All Star industry and executed the first All Star National Championship in Dallas, Texas.

The two were honored at the 2014 USASF Awards Gala and received The Pioneer Award for their part in developing the All Star industry.

Robert Tisdale began cheering as a high school student in San Angelo, Texas, and shortly thereafter went on to cheer at San Angelo State University. He attended his first NCA cheerleading camp at Southern Methodist University, where he was recruited to the NCA team.

Robert worked as an NCA camp instructor from 1967 to 1972. In 1974, Robert joined Jeff Webb to assist with the launch of a new company, the Universal Cheerleaders Association. Robert ran the UCA office for years, overseeing camp management and university relations to extend the reach of UCA camps nationwide.

Robert has held several important roles at Varsity Spirit, handling everything from accounting to fashion production to facility management. Today, he serves as Varsity Spirit’s Vice President of Human Resources.

During his 12 years with UCA, Randy Harris was instrumental in the development and direction of UCA’s one day cheer clinics, which introduced UCA’s unique instructional programs and coaching style to thousands of cheerleaders. The clinics functioned as the building blocks to UCA’s regional competitions, which then helped launch the nationally televised National High School Cheerleading Championship.

Randy is best known as the first elite male partner stunt performer and instructor. He was the role model for college cheerleaders throughout the country and originated many teaching progressions still used today. Randy, with various partners, performed the Liberty and the Liberty Heel Stretch for the first time.

Randy was the fifth person to join UCA as a full time employee and thus had multiple responsibilities with the young company. In addition to teaching camps and clinics, Randy was involved in the production of the first three uniform catalogs for Varsity Spirit Fashion.

In 1967, Karen Lawrence joined NCA Staff as a camp instructor. Karen worked as an instructor for three summers and excelled in many other company positions throughout her years with the company. In 1997, Karen became the Senior VP of Marketing for NCA & NDA and used her knowledge and love for the brand to shape the company’s message and image.

During her time at NCA & NDA, Karen was an influential member of the original board of directors for USASF, the USASF National Advisory Board, Worlds Advisory Board, Worlds Scholarship Committee and many more. Many people recognized Karen as the face of NCA and a go-to person for teams and coaches across the country. Karen was also instrumental in building NCA’s long-time relationship with the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

Tony Jaeger’s cheerleading career began during his high school years in Louisiana, where he cheered for the New Orleans Saints. A gymnast and dancer by trade, Tony went on to participate in cheerleading and gymnastics as a student at Louisiana State University. Tony joined NCA staff in 1971, where he worked four summers alongside fellow instructors Greg and Jeff Web. In 1974, Tony helped to create the Universal Cheerleaders Association. When cheerleading began to expand internationally, Tony spent nearly five years overseas introducing and teaching cheerleading in Japan and Germany.

Through the years, Tony has stayed involved with the UCA/Varsity Spirit family while also taking his love of performing to the stage. He spent 10 years on Broadway, scoring roles in Tap Dance Kid, Cats and The Music Man, to name a few. Today, Tony resides in New Orleans, Louisiana and brings his spirit to the skies as a steward for JetBlue Airways.

Becky Gennings’ cheerleading career began during her high school years in Jonesboro, Arkansas. In 1977, Becky was recruited to join the Universal Cheerleaders Association as a summer camp instructor. She spent the next two decades working UCA summer camps. After college, Becky accepted a part-time job as a Staffing Director at the UCA office in Memphis. Her part-time position quickly became full-time, as she played an instrumental role in recruiting and training staff, as well as expanding the national championships.

In 1994, Becky was promoted to her current role as Vice President of UCA. Under her leadership, UCA has experienced exponential growth. In 2002, Becky also took a lead role in developing UCA’s relationship with the National Federation of High School State Associations, one of UCA’s most valued partners.

Michael Boylan began working with Varsity Spirit in 1981, as a producer of the UCA high school and college championships. Michael worked closely with the Varsity team for over 20 years, all-in-all producing over 100 televised events for Varsity. Michael had no prior experience with cheerleading when he started but quickly became an expert, learning the vernacular and becoming intimately familiar with the format of competitive cheerleading. Michael’s work on the championships played a key role in transforming cheerleading into the international phenomenon it is today.

Additionally, Michael is the former CEO of WJCT Public Broadcasting in Florida, where he produced programming that reached millions of viewers every single day.

A skilled gymnast and athlete, Scott Elliott started his cheerleading career at Amarillo High School in Texas. His natural talent was quickly noticed by the Universal Cheerleaders Association, and he was recruited to join UCA staff in 1975. After cheering at Ole Miss and Murray State, Scott moved to Memphis to work for the company full time. Scott wore many hats during his time at Varsity Spirit. He managed UCA’s high school and college programs, helped run the national championships and even served as Varsity Spirit Fashion model for some of the early catalogs. Scott also spearheaded many safety initiatives and eventually helped launch the American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators (AACCA).

Melanie Berry began cheerleading during high school in Bartlett, Tennessee. In 1980, she competed at the inaugural National High School Cheerleading Championship, where her team took third place. After high school, Melanie joined the Universal Drill Pom Association, now simply known as the Universal Dance Association. She spent 11 years as a UDA instructor and served as a part-time assistant to Kris Shepherd during her college years at the University of Memphis. In 1988, Melanie joined the company full-time to assist Varsity Spirit’s special events division.

Melanie currently serves as Varsity Spirit’s Senior Vice President of Special Events. In this role, her accomplishments are numerous. Melanie had a lead role in the launch of the UDA National Dance Team Championship, expanded Varsity Spirit’s parade and performance opportunities, and has fostered a long-term relationship with the Walt Disney World® Resort.

Gilmore Williams began his career with NCA in 1965. Gilmore brought with him an extensive gymnastics background, which he used to help cheerleaders improve their tumbling skills. During his time with NCA, Gilmore also developed the very first cheerleading safety manuals and cheerleading publications: Tumbling for Cheerleading (which Gilmore co-wrote with Lawrence Herkimer) and Mini Tramp for Cheerleading.

In 1974, Gilmore joined Jeff Webb to launch the Universal Cheerleaders Association. He served as the first gymnastics instructor for UCA and taught summer camps and gymnastics clinics for cheerleaders nationwide. After several years with UCA, Gilmore started his own gymnastics program in Midland, Texas, where he still lives today.

Kim Williams joined the Varsity Spirit team in 1988 as a UCA instructor. After spending six years on UCA staff, Kim accepted a position as a Varsity Spirit Fashion Representative in 1994. During her years as a Varsity Rep, she created Varsity Spirit Fashion’s first training program and became one of Varsity’s first two sales trainers. In 1999, she assumed responsibility for Varsity Spirit Fashion’s product line.

For fifteen years, Kim served as Varsity Spirit Fashion’s lead designer, creating hundreds of designs worn by millions of cheerleaders and dancers worldwide. Under her stewardship, Varsity Spirit Fashion introduced numerous technical innovations, including MotionFlex®, Powerfit®, ActionWeave® and sublimated uniforms.

Kim currently serves Spirit Fashion’s Vice President of Design and continues to uphold the quality and style of Varsity Spirit Fashion’s products.

Greg Hicks started his cheerleading career as the Cougar mascot for the University of Houston. Greg quickly made a name for himself within the mascot world, as he was twice recognized as an “Outstanding Mascot” by the NCAA. After graduating from the University of Houston with a degree in Education, Greg joined the Universal Cheerleaders Association as a mascot instructor. After several summers of working UCA summer camps and coaching at the University of Houston, Greg joined UCA full time as the manager of the Southwest Region. Greg’s success as a manager inspired UCA to expand to six regions nationwide, a structure that the company has kept to this day.

Greg was also a key contributor to many other UCA endeavors. He led coach and employee training, event coordination, and served as head judge for numerous national championships.

Michael Olmstead grew up in the cheerleading business – he attended his first camp, conducted by his father Robert Olmstead, as an infant. After graduating from Princeton in 1972, Michael began expanding his family’s camp business throughout the West Coast.

In 1976, Michael co-founded the United Spirit Association to help school groups – cheerleaders, songleaders, drill teams, tall flags, and lettergirls – work together to promote school spirit. In the late 1970s USA began working with UCA, providing mascot and dance curricula for UCA camps throughout the Midwest and South.

In 1996, USA joined Varsity Spirit. Michael now runs his own event and production company, e2K Events and Entertainment. Today, e2K is one of the most successful production companies in America, with clients ranging from Pixar to Microsoft to the Wall Street Journal.

Like many of our Legends, Dianne Nettles came to UCA right out of Ocean Springs High School in 1981. During her time on UCA staff, Dianne was known as the girl that could do it all; she could tumble, jump, teach any class – high school and college – and never miss a beat. She worked for eight summers before joining the team full time as Varsity Spirit Fashion Apparel Representative. For over 20 years Dianne has consistently provided her customers with amazing attention and care. She has also served as a national championship winning coach at Ocean Springs High School in Mississippi.

Sharon was the head cheerleader at the University of Arkansas at the time when she decided to try out for UCA Staff. Sharon worked many years for UCA as a high school and college camp instructor before she began her full-time career as the UCA Staff Coordinator. One of Sharon’s most notable contributions to Varsity Spirit was during her time as the Director of the National High School Cheerleading Championship, when she created the idea of what is known today as “The White Jacket”. She moved on to helping develop the first UCA College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship in Hawaii, as well as the first UDA National Dance Team Championship in Cypress Gardens. Sharon was instrumental in the early ages of staff coordination and travel assignments, and developed the system of how “staffing” is done today.

Gary was an Athletic Trainer at Middle Tennessee State University when the early days of UCA Camp took place at MTSU. He saw a need for cheerleading camps to be equipped with proper athletic training personnel, and shortly thereafter, Gary helped in the development of Varsity Camp Administration. Gary was the original Varsity Camp Administrator, or “Red Shirt”, to combine the jobs of on-site medical personnel, as well as setting the tone at camp with an up-beat environment provided by music. Gary played an instrumental role in Varsity Spirit’s Red Shirt program for thirty years, ranging from serving all of UCA’s College Spirit Camps, working Special Events and training new Red Shirts each year.

Kim was highly influential in the early years of UCA as one of the main Top Girls. She originated notable Top Girl technique, as well as introduced flipping dismounts from partner stunts and pyramids. Kim’s contributions in the development of elite skills supported her success at The Ohio State University when she was captain of the first National Champion team at the UCA & UDA College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship. Kim’s contributions in Top Girl development laid the foundation for skills that are still taught at Varsity Spirit Camps today.

Laurie’s contributions in the dance world and Varsity Spirit are numerous. She was a Song Girl at USC, which led to her to become a Songleader for United Spirit Association. Her success as a dance icon contributed to her becoming the Director of the Songleading program at USA for several years. Laurie modeled in the very early years of Varsity Spirit Fashions, and eventually, founded the San Francisco 49’ers Gold Rush Cheerleaders. Laurie has made a lifetime out of her passion, contributions and achievements in the dance community, and still serves as an icon in the dance world today.

Bill was the head cheerleader at Indiana University at the time when he became an NCA instructor. Since then, he was completely invested in building up NCA. Bill served as NCA’s first full-time State Director, and rose through the ranks to Senior Vice President. He is invaluable in Varsity Spirit’s Training and Education division today as the Senior VP of Sales Support. Bill has dedicated his career and life to support and build NCA, and ultimately, strengthen the Varsity Spirit brand.

Liz was the captain of the Rutgers University Dance Team at the time when she started teaching as an instructor for UDC, what is known as UDA today. Liz was instrumental in high school and college summer camps, special events and choreography. In addition to serving as the Director of Choreography for High School and College programs and special events, Liz is also known for being the longest running head instructor for the college program for 23 years. Her passion for dance helped spread it to the global level as she helped to develop the internationally recognized judges, coaches and rules training courses that exists today. Today, Liz is the Varsity International Director of Dance, and her impact in the dance community continues to grow.

Pauline was a cheerleader at LSU and the New Orleans Saints at the time when she began as an instructor for UCA. Pauline’s contributions to UCA College Camps were infinite, as her elite top girl and basket toss skills paved the way for the skills that exist today. Her contributions in the performance of elite top girl skills supported her success at LSU when she was captain of the first National Champion team at the UCA & UDA College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship. Pauline returned to LSU to serve as the Spirit Director and develop the LSU Tiger Girl program. During this time, Pauline also served as a Varsity Spirit Fashion Sales Rep for ten years and built up the strong southern Louisiana presence that exists today. In 2004, Pauline fully devoted herself to LSU and continues to be the Spirit Director and Head coach today.

Jennifer was hired as a UDA Instructor in 1988 after graduating from Clovis West High School. She was captain of her dance team that won NDTC in 1988. From that point on, Jennifer became one of the all-time great UDA Instructors. She headed UDA camps all over the country for 10 years, and also worked in Camp management. Jennifer is not only known for her contributions to UDA Staff, but also the traditions she has helped create as the head coach of Los Alamitos High School Dance Team. Los Al has been one of the top dance teams in the country throughout her tenure. Jennifer is a leader, an innovator, embraces the vision that we have for the world of dance and the role dance teams should fill at their schools.

Tim worked at Walt Disney World Resorts for 27 years, and 25 of those years were spent working with Varsity Spirit. Through Tim's good will and good attitude, he was able to see the vision 25 years ago that Varsity Spirit could bring to Disney, and he was someone who got the job done. Tim's direct involvement, support of the Varsity/Disney relationship and helping secure the types of facilities and experiences that are so important to Varsity Spirit were key to building this sustaining relationship. Many years later, Tim worked with his team and helped design concepts that would later develop into Disney's newest venue at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, The Arena.

Julie became a UCA Instructor in 1985 and was a cheerleader at Indiana University until 1989. Since that time, she has been the Head Coach of Indiana University Cheerleading. Varsity Spirit and Indiana University have remained a constant in Julie's life, as she serves as an exemplary VSF Rep today and notable college cheerleading coach. Julie has left an important mark at IU by creating an iconic game day atmosphere and helping coach the IU Crimson team to 6 National Championship titles.

Karl became a UCA Instructor in 1989 while cheerleading at the University of Wisconsin. Karl was an amazing instructor, and was hired in 1994 as the first UCA Midwest Regional Manager. Karl has been instrumental in Varsity Spirit's international reach. He developed and ran the first ICU World Championships in 2009 and played a major role in founding and building the ICU, and getting it recognized by the IOC in 2016. Karl has had a global impact on Varsity Spirit.

Bill cheered at George Mason University until 1991 and became a UCA Instructor in 1992. Shortly after, Bill became the first UCA Southeast Regional Manager. Bill was instrumental in developing and nurturing our Training and Education program for many years, the development and execution of USA Cheer and STUNT the sport, the Squad Credentialing program, Varsity Spirit's Game Day initiatives, the Role of a Cheerleader and Dancer, and more. Because of Bill's devotion to Varsity Spirit, he was promoted to President of Varsity Spirit in 2017.

Priscilla Mitchell was part of the original group who followed Jeff Webb to help create Universal Cheerleader's Association. She worked for five summers, and served as a Head Instructor, as well as an elite top girl on the UCA College Staff. She is most notable for creating the Liberty with fellow Varsity Legend. Randy Harris. They taught this skill and other elite stunts together at college camps across the country. Priscilla attended and cheered at Vanderbilt University, then went on to graduate school at the University of Memphis. Priscilla resides in Franklin, TN today and is thankful to have shared the love of cheerleading with her daughter as she grew up.

Mike Burgess attended and cheered for UCLA and was an instructor for United Spirit Association for 15 years. Mike served as a cheer instructor and head camp manager on the admin side - To this day, he still manages at least one camp per summer. Mike took on the role of President of USA right after fellow Varsity Legend, Michael Olmstead. He attributes much of his success to Michael's guidance and support. Mike competed at the first USA High School Nationals, and continues to serve as the President of USA today. He is proud to have grown up through United Spirit Association and watch it grow from the very beginning.

Dawn Calitri attended the University of North Texas, and during the summer would work at her mom's office: Cheerleader Supply Co. This was fellow Varsity Legend, Lawrence Herkimer's former company. Dawn began her full-time career at Cheerleader Supply Co., which would one day transition to NCA. Dawn grew through the ranks from what started as a ``cool summer job`` to the President of NCA. Today, Dawn serves as the Senior Vice President of Operations for the Training and Education division, and is responsible for the NCA, USA and Varsity University brands.

Tamara Carlisle came from a small town with a big personality. Tamara began her career as a UCA instructor, and was an incredible dancer. She always headed dance class, and in some cases, alone with 500+ athletes. Tamara was one of the only instructors who could transition between UCA and UDA camps. She served as a Head Instructor and taught college camps for both brands. After Tamara stopped working summer camps, she remained with the company to help with the TV shows, where she produced the film and production down at nationals for UCA. Tamara credits her go-getter personality, versatility and adaptability to UCA, and truly believes she is who she is because of the experiences she had with Varsity Spirit.

Tommy Grissom started working with Varsity Spirit as a ``cool summer job`` while attending MTSU, and that cool job continues almost 40 years later. Tommy served as a Head Camp Admin for numerous years, as well as the staff that helped orchestrate the championships. Tommy served on the orignal 4 staff that helped put on the first National Dance Team Championship in 1983, and his original employee number was 12. The “portable stages” that are utilized at camps still to this day to teach cheers and dances were designed by Tommy. They were used to replace having to teach on folding tables. As the company grew, Tommy grew within his same position. He was a master at his craft, and still serves as a facilities manager for the Varsity Spirit Warehouses today. Tommy met his wife, Andrea, at Varsity Spirit, and have 2 sons. They have all grown up with Varsity Spirit being a huge part of their lives.

Marci Neumeister cheered at the University of Pittsburgh, and then took her skills to UPenn to begin her coaching career. Marci's cheer and sales background made her the perfect fit to become a Varsity Spirit Fashion Sales Rep, and that was the beginning of her successful career with Varsity Spirit. She moved on to be a district manager and a trainer. She found passion in management and placed her focus on that to grow her team. That mindset led her to many successes, including 5 consecutive years in a row of Division of the Year. Marci has spent every day doing what she loves since the day she began her career with Varsity, and it shows through her and her team’s work. Marci continues to reside in Pennsylvania with her family and is now the Vice President of Apparel Sales for the East Division.

Bill Ahern (Cowboy) was a cheerleader at the University of Kentucky from 1981-1987, where he ended his college career with a National Championship in 87. While at UK, Cowboy joined UCA Staff in the summer of 1986 and has been a lifer ever since. Over the last 35+ years with Varsity Spirit, Cowboy has been instrumental in the development of STUNT, Varsity University, NFHS partnership and state association relationships and staff training. Cowboy currently lives in Memphis with his wife, Shannon and his twin children, Logan & Olivia and serves as Varsity Spirit’s VP of Staff Development today.

A graduate of Russell High School and Eastern Kentucky University, Candy Berry started coaching Greenup County High School in 1976. Candy helped to transform the “ball game/saddle oxford shoes/girls in sweaters entertainment” to athletes supporting athletes. Her goal was to make the team a sport that all other athletes respected, and that she did. This eagerness led her team to be one of the first 15 competitors at the first National High School Cheerleading Championship. Over the last 45 years, Candy has coached the Greenup County Cheerleaders to 16 National Championship titles. Candy resides in Greenup County today with her husband of 53 years and is celebrating her 45th year as the Head Coach of Greenup County.

Brian Carroll joined the Varsity Spirit Family in January of 1997 as the VP of Sales for Varsity Spirit Fashion. Over the last twenty years, Brian helped lead the Varsity Spirit Fashion team to the creation of world-class products and services, helped to innovate the customization of premium-quality cheer, dance and band apparel, led Production and Supply Chain for VSF and all of its plants, and was invaluable in the implementation of integrating SalesForce as our primary customer database. Brian took Varsity Spirit Fashion to the next level, and he walked alongside all his people while doing it. Brian retired in July of 2021 and currently lives in Fort Myers, FL.

Buffy cheered and danced for the University of Florida from 1989-1994 and was hired on NCA Staff in 1989. Buffy worked eight full summers with up to twelve camps per summer – ALL within the state of Florida. Buffy made the move to Dallas, TX in March of 1996 to work for NCA & NDA full time. She oversaw the staffing directors the NCA & NDA curriculum department. Since 1996, she has also maintained her passion for NCA Special Events. Buffy skills and passion ultimately paved her way up to the GM of NCA & NDA, and today, Buffy serves the Varsity Spirit team as the VP of Business Projects and Brand Operations Varsity Spirit. Buffy and her husband, Mike, live in the greater Dallas area with their two sons, Chase and Cole.

Jim Lord became a UCA Instructor in the summer of 1984 after his freshman year of college at TCU. After meeting and working with many University of Kentucky Cheerleaders, he too became a Wildcat from 1988-1991. Jim joined the company full time in 1991, and has been invaluable in the development, execution and maintenance of AACCA, STUNT and USA Cheer. Jim resides in Memphis today as the Director of Education and Programs USA Cheer with his wife, Ginger and son, AJ.

Tracie Marciniak started as a UDA (formerly UDC) instructor in the summer of 1985 as one of twelve instructors across the entire country. Tracie danced for the University of Iowa from 1985-1989 and spent her summers head instructing all of the northern Midwest camps and teaching college camps. Her success as a dancer and choreographer landed her a spot on the Chicago Bulls Dance Team from 1990-1992 and then continued to do the team’s choreography for the next seven years. Tracie was on-camera talent for ESPN at the Varsity Spirit championships for a decade, alongside Jeff Webb and Bill Seely. In 1997, Tracie established Company Dance, a division for technical dance, and led this division for ten years. She developed continuing education courses for workshops and competitions and became VP of Co Dance. Today, Tracie works for an organization called SCORE, a national nonprofit organization that mentors and fuels passion for small business owners. Tracie also serves on a board for a local ballet company because dance will always be a part of her DNA makeup.

Penny’s career with Varsity Spirit started back in 1984 when there were just 12 people in the office. Penny’s employee number was 13. Throughout Penny's career, she took over the registration department where she helped develop the registration systems for national events. Camps, competitions, special events and championships eventually all landed an online registration platform under Penny’s hard work and leadership. Penny lives in Memphis, TN and serves as Varsity Spirit's VP of Registration and Customer Service today.

Tracy started working for Varsity Spirit Fashion in April of 1988 at just 17 years old. She had a life-long career at Varsity Spirit and stayed through her life changes. She gained experience in customer service, sales management, merchandising, and business strategy, which led to her ultimate road at the SVP of Sales Operations. Some of her biggest accomplishments at Varsity Spirit were helping to develop OMS, created business information and streamlined thoughts for reporting, as well as created sales operations as we know it today. Tracy was instrumental in helping to navigate Varsity Spirit through the most challenging times and always rose to the occasion. Tracy was loved by her Varsity Spirit family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was a mentor and wanted the best for each employee. She preferred to be behind the scenes and loved watching her coworkers and teammates shine. Tracy was also a family-oriented person. She always put others before herself and she lived for her family; her husband, Wesley, and her two daughters, Savana and Alex.

Newby’s introduction to cheerleading began in
December of 1990 when his wife, Mary, convinced him
to join Varsity Spirit as a sales rep. He left his
manufacturing textile training job and earned VSF Rookie of
the year in ‘91. Newby was the coach of Clemson Cheerleading and Rally Cats in 1993. As the VS Operations Manager, Newby lead the first sales force automation project – moving VSF reps from 3 ply forms to laptops. Newby then shifted over to Training & Education, where he helped lead the NCA/Cheerleader Danzteam integration, and the creation
of V!ROC. He continued his T&E journey as the VP of Marketing & Sales and then the VP of UCA.

Next, Newby went on to lead the creation of the Varsity All Star division, developing the Varsity Family Plan and helping dream up The Summit and The D2 Summit.

started up the IMPACT initiative across VB as the Exec. VP of IMPACT, and then served as the President of Herff Jones from 2015-2017. Newby returned to his old stomping grounds as the EVP of Corporate Partnerships where he led the BAND and Fabletics sponsorship
relationships. And today, Newby serves one of our now largest parts of the business as the EVP/GM of Varsity All Star.

Newby has been able to experience his work in a professional and personal level as all five of his daughters have grown up through Varsity Spirit!

Tish Carter began full time with Varsity Spirit as a Sales Rep in 1981. Over the course of her 40-year career with Varsity Spirit, Tish has been a part of many innovations that are now part of the fabric of our business. She served on the New Products and Design team to create the first College Cheer & Dance only catalog in 2015 to recognize and set this part of the business apart from the main catalog.

Stephanie started working for UDA in 1991 after graduating from St. Thomas More HS. She worked for UDA for 12 years as an instructor and a head instructor while attending the University of Southwestern Louisiana and then becoming the dance team coach and choreographer for St. Thomas More High School. Over the course of 23 years as their coach and choreographer, the team has earned 16 UDA National Championships in Pom and Jazz. She is also responsible for creating strong traditions and legacy as the STM coach. Stephanie was a UDA Head Instructor, Summer Camp Choreographer, Parade Choreographer, High School and College Nationals Judge, and District Representative for Louisiana and Mississippi for six years. She also commentated the UCA & UDA College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship for Dance on ESPN in 2012.

For the past 26 years, she has been the owner/director of Dance Warehouse Inc in Lafayette, Louisiana, where she currently lives with her husband, Garrett, and twins Jaxon and Chloe. She recently came out of “retirement” and became the coach of St. Thomas More HS Cougar Dance Team.

Linda Morales Cook was a cheerleader at Pan American University from 1984-1986 and served as the coach for a year. She transferred and graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington. Linda was part of the small group of people who served as BOTH UCA & UDA instructors. She was a Head Instructor, on College Staff, and served as a judge from 1985-1996. Linda was hired as a Varsity Rep in 1990 in her hometown of Rio Grande Valley.

Linda was involved with UCA camp curriculum and program development which included choreography for summer camp dances. She played a part in expanding UCA international camps and competitions in Mexico and Costa Rica. Linda was a part of Kim Williams “sounding boards” that involved our product lines and catalog proofing and editing. She had the opportunity to design top trending uniforms and practice wear for programs like Woodlands Elite All Stars. Linda still resides in Houston, TX today with her family. Linda is the perfect example of building relationships with customers that include trust, loyalty, and friendship.

Julie was a cheerleader at Southeast Missouri State University from 1982-1986. After finding a posting in the paper for a position with Cheerleader Supply, she started as a sales rep in 1988, when there were only 32 reps. The 3-day camp packages were ideas that Julie had as a sales rep that were implemented into the catalog. Julie was promoted to Regional Manager, and then National Sales Manager, leading her to play a large part in the CDT and VSF merge!

She went on to be the Regional Sales Manager for VSF and later promoted to District Sales Manager. Julie notably started the Dance Council and the sales initiative. She was also pivotal in the creation of Varsity Footwear. Today, Julie serves as the VP of Sales for the West School Division.

Mike attended the University of Southern Mississippi from 1981-1987. He started working for Varsity Spirit in the summer of 1983 with UCA/UDA Camp Administration as a First Aider and Camp Manager. He was hired full-time the summer of 1992 as the Assistant Program Director in the Camp Administration Department. Several years later, Mike became the Program Director of Camp Admin. Along with the responsibilities of Camp Admin, he was asked to take on Special Events for the London/Paris/Rome parades. In 2014, Mike became Vice President of Varsity Camp Administration and Special Events. He proved to be invaluable to the growth of our Special Events, both national and international!

Carolynn Clark started as a consultant for Varsity Spirit for catalog design with Lewis and John Manlow, upon recommendation. She later joined the team as the Art Director, where she designed all Varsity Spirit catalogs. As Varsity started coming out with more of a fashion-style catalog, Carolynn led the way in recreating the look to showcase cheerleaders as athletes. This attention to detail allowed Varsity Spirit Fashion catalogs to be distinguished from other brands. In addition to her uniform focus, Carolynn worked on UDA, dance photo shoots and designed for a line of costumes for youth dancers.

Carolynn was pivotal in the design process of the transition to Varsity Brands and branding of various business units. She was known to make every brand's vision come to life.

Martha Burge started with Varsity in June 1980 working as camp management/admin. She worked closely with Robert Tisdale on summer camp registration and became the UCA/UDA Camp Admin and University Relations Director. Martha helped to write and develop the first camp manual, she went on to work on the brochures every year. She also helped set up the first registration computer with Carol Watson. Martha is now retired, living in Panama City and learning to play bocce ball!

Jerry Preschutti opened a football camp over 50 years ago in Greeley, Pennsylvania, called Pine Forest Camp. Jerry played football at Temple and coached there from 1965-1969. In 1970, Pine Forest hosted its first cheerleading camp. After many years of hosting football and cheerleading camps at the Pine Forest campgrounds, Jerry realized that the cheerleading camps were growing into something special. Pine Forest stopped hosting the original football camps and focused on growing the UCA Cheerleading Camps.

In 2023, over 6,600 cheerleaders attend the UCA Cheerleading Camps at the one of the three Pine Forest Camp locations: Pine Forest, Trails End, and Chestnut Lake. What sets Jerry apart from other camp location hosts is that Pine Forrest is 100 percent family-run. Jerry is assisted year after year by his two sons Jerry and Craig. The three of them work together each summer to create the best experience for every cheerleader who attends the camps.

Jerry likes to personally open and close each camp by speaking to the teams. Much like all Varsity Spirit Camps, whether you’ve attended a UCA Pine Forest camp as a cheerleader or coach, you leave each year feeling inspired by your experience and look forward to carrying on the traditions. Every year, Jerry is motivated by the spirit that he gets to see in action every summer... The spirit that each cheerleader brings and the memories they take with when they leave.
She went on to be the Regional Sales Manager for VSF and later promoted to District Sales Manager. Julie notably started the Dance Council and the sales initiative. She was also pivotal in the creation of Varsity Footwear. Today, Julie serves as the VP of Sales for the West School Division.

John Nichols and Jeff Webb met in 1981 while Nichols was an outside CPA for what was then Universal Sports Camps. He worked in that role until 1986, when he became the Board of Directors with Varsity Corporation, upon its establishment. He continued as a consultant for Varsity and stepped in as the VP of Finance in 1992. He later became the CFO in 1994, until 2013 when he shifted to the role of Exec. Vice President and General Manager until 2017. He then moved to the role of Executive Vice President and Special Advisor to President Bill Seely.

Some of his favorite memories with Varsity include traveling to London, England with Greg Webb or the Great Wall with Karl Olson. He officially retired in November 2019, and he now spends his time playing tennis and traveling to his condo on the Gulf Coast. Today he still serves as the Treasurer for the ICU, speaking at the Annual General Meeting to give financial updates.

Monica Bloodgood started as a UCA Staff in 1988. She began as a Texas Staff and was considered one of “Greg Hick’s Girls.” Monica was a part of one of the first All Girl Elite stunt groups, working under Cowboy and Jim Lord to develop stunts and safety guidelines that are still in affect today. In 1992, she became the Northeast Territory Manager, overseeing camps and competitions. In the late 80's and early 90's she helped create camp choreography and material, crafting leadership/team building manuals and activities. She also created Head Instructor training manuals and conducted staff training and advisor workshops.

In 1998, she moved to Southern California and became the West Coast Territory Manager. In these roles she received accolades such as Territory Growth Award – Bronze/ Gold Level and Goal Setter Awards. She staffed both Regional competitions and College Nationals, judged NHSCC and Cheer Worlds, attended and helped plan numerous Special Events, spoke at UCA Leadership Conferences and coordinated UCA functions with Region Managers and Sales Representatives for Varsity Spirit Fashions.

Monica is currently the VP of Global Partnerships at FloSports. Her work and time at Flo has fostered the Varsity TV and FloCheer partnership which has allowed cheerleading and dance to be broadcasted to athletes and spectators across the nation.