Jeff Webb, the man credited with helping to grow the sport of cheerleading in America in his role as founder and chairman of Varsity Spirit, is stepping away from the company he founded to shift his focus to growing cheer globally through his role as president of the International Cheer Union.

ICU represents federations in 116 countries and is recognized by the International Olympic Committee as the sport’s governing body. Through this move, Webb will forgo his full-time responsibilities as chairman of Varsity Spirit, but will provide consultation services in addition to his work with the ICU. He will also focus on the recent launch of his political and public policy initiatives.

Webb is credited by many with transforming cheerleading and creating a global enterprise that has impacted millions of young athletes. He was also instrumental in bringing Varsity Spirit, BSN Sports and Herff Jones together to form the Varsity Brands platform.

“What started out of my apartment in 1974 has grown beyond my wildest aspirations and I am proud of what has been accomplished by the entire Varsity Spirit team over all these years,” Webb said in a statement announcing the move. “We built a great company and we have had an incredibly positive impact on so many young people in this country. I am grateful for the opportunity to have led the Varsity Spirit organization over the last 45 years.”

“Jeff Webb’s contributions to cheerleading is remarkable,” added Varsity Brands CEO, Adam Blumenfeld. “He created an international phenomenon that inspired participants worldwide and created a unique and enduring business. For all that have worked with him, he has been a passionate and committed leader and we are thankful for his vision, energy and leadership as are the countless young people that have been positively impacted by his life and career.“

Blumenfeld said that Webb’s work at Varsity Spirit will continue with Bill Seely, the company’s president, and his leadership team.