An Open Letter to the Cheer Community

Our Commitment to Safety, Security, and Supporting Our Athletes

To Our Cheer Families,

The events of March 1 were unsettling for all of us. As a father and grandfather, I know firsthand the responsibility we all feel to protect our children and ensure they have a safe place to pursue their dreams. While unexpected, this incident has only strengthened my personal commitment—and Varsity Spirit’s commitment—to the safety, security, and well-being of our athletes, families, and fans.

All star cheer is more than just a sport—it’s a transformative experience that builds confidence, resilience, and lifelong friendships. Your children deserve to compete in an environment where they feel protected, supported, and celebrated. That’s why we are taking immediate steps to enhance security, support those affected, and ensure impacted teams feel recognized and supported.

But I also want to say this: It’s incredibly disappointing and frustrating that the actions of just two adults had such a ripple effect on our entire community. As parents, we know the worry and frustration you must be feeling – we feel it too. That’s why we are making changes to not only further strengthen security but also ensure that when you walk into our events, you feel safe, supported and confident that your athletes are in the best possible environment. We owe that to you, and we owe it to the kids who give their all to this sport.

Supporting Athletes & Families Affected by the Event

We recognize the impact this incident has had on athletes, families, and teams, and we are providing resources and support to help those affected:

• Counseling Support: We know this experience may have been distressing for many athletes and families. To provide assistance, we are offering free counseling with licensed mental health professionals through Live Health Online.
• Spectator Ticket Refund: We are offering ticket refunds to spectators. Saturday-only ticket holders will receive a full refund, and weekend ticket holders will receive a 50% refund.
• Virtual Competition: We know how much dedication and effort went into preparing for this event. To recognize the hard work of teams unable to [fully] compete, we are hosting a virtual competition. Please check with your gym to see if your team will participate.

Evolving Security for Future Events

I want you to know that Varsity Spirit is taking decisive action to continue to evolve our safety protocols, create the safest possible environment for your children. We are enhancing security measures at all non-Disney competitions, while events held within Disney parks will continue to be managed under Disney’s strong security framework.

Here’s what we’re doing:

• Increased Police Presence: We are significantly increasing the number of uniformed and plain clothes police officers at all events. We remind anyone present at our events: If you see something, say something. Report any suspicious behavior or misconduct to security personnel or officers onsite.
• Weapon Detection Technology: We’re using a tiered, risk-based approach to security at all competitions. This includes accelerating the rollout of weapon detection technology or screening devices at venues where infrastructure allows. Our teams are working closely with venues and law enforcement to balance security with a smooth entry process
• Alcohol Policy Enforcement: No outside alcohol is permitted at any event or inside competition halls. Where venues sell alcohol, we are requesting a suspension of alcohol sales in our contracted areas.
• Zero-Tolerance Policy for Misconduct: We will continue to enforce a zero tolerance policy for any illegal, dangerous, or disruptive behavior. Individuals, teams or gyms may face lifetime bans for misconduct.
• Safety Awareness Messaging: Enhanced safety messaging will be displayed throughout events. Parents and coaches are encouraged to review safety instructions with their athletes.
• Prohibited Items: To maintain a safe and secure environment, our of list of prohibited items is strictly enforced for all events.
• Clear Bag Policy (Starting 2025-2026 Season): We are evaluating a clear bag policy for spectators beginning in the 2025-2026 competition season. More details will be provided prior to the start of the season.

Beyond these visible changes, we are continuously evaluating and enhancing our security measures, ensuring that both visible and behind-the-scenes efforts create the safest possible environment for our athletes, families, and fans.

Upholding Our Event Code of Conduct

A safe and respectful environment requires a collective effort from everyone in attendance. We ask that all athletes, coaches, families and spectators to uphold the Event Code of Conduct, which sets clear expectations for sportsmanship, respect and responsible behavior. By working together and holding ourselves to the highest standards, we can continue to create a positive and secure atmosphere for all.

Meet Our Chief Security Officer

We want you to know that safety is not an afterthought-it is a core priority led by experienced security professionals.

Our Chief Security Officer, Lisa Olivieri, brings more than 20 years of experience from the United States Secret Service, where she led high-profile investigations and protective operations. She now oversees our team of specialists in law enforcement, security strategy, safety, abuse prevention, and security technology ensuring that our approach to event security is both proactive and comprehensive.

Lisa’s leadership gives us great confidence as we continue to enhance our security measures at every competition.

Our Commitment to the Cheer Community

As parents, coaches and athletes, you put your trust in us every time you step onto the mat or support those that do. We do not take that responsibility lightly.

We are committed to not just enhancing security, but ensuring that you feel confident, supported and heard. We appreciate your partnership in creating a safe and positive environment for everyone, and we will continue working to uphold the highest standards of safety at every Varsity Spirit competition.

Safety is a team effort, and together, we will protect the experiences and events we all cherish. At the end of the day, it’s all about the incredible young people we support and celebrate.

Bill Seely President, Varsity Spirit