Varsity Spirit Unveils the World's First Professional Cheerleading League for Elite Athletes

Varsity Spirit Launches the Pro Cheer League

In a groundbreaking move for the sport of cheerleading, Varsity Spirit has announced the establishment of the Pro Cheer League, set to debut in January 2026. This league is poised to be the first professional cheerleading platform entirely dedicated to athletes aged 18 and older, marking a significant step forward for athletes who aspire to pursue their careers at a higher competitive level.

A Vision for the Future

The Pro Cheer League aims to create an unprecedented career path for elite cheerleaders. With the sport's growing popularity in recent years, particularly due to its inclusion in the Olympic movement, this league is seen as a critical development in supporting athletes in their pursuit of excellence in cheerleading. As Bill Seely, President of Varsity Spirit, stated, "The Pro Cheer League represents a bold step forward... this will elevate cheer to its rightful place in sports."

Founding Teams and Competitive Structure

The inaugural season will kick off with four founding teams located in Atlanta, Dallas, Miami, and San Diego. Each team will consist of 30 elite cheerleaders selected through a rigorous competitive process scheduled for this fall, led by experienced team managers recognized for their training expertise. Cheerleaders in the league will benefit from elite training, competitive compensation, and opportunities for national visibility.

Five high-energy events are planned in premier cities including Indianapolis, Houston, Atlanta, Anaheim, and Nashville. These events will feature three rounds of competition: the first two rounds will showcase traditional cheerleading skills such as stunts and tumbling, culminating in a creative round focused on choreography and performance artistry. This format not only highlights the athleticism of the competitors but also emphasizes creativity and entertainment value.

Comprehensive Training and Standards

In addition to athlete preparation, the Pro Cheer League will ensure that all staff and coaches undergo thorough training to meet the established standards from USA Cheer. A governance body will be established within the league to oversee compliance with rules and regulations, ensuring the utmost integrity in competition.

A Platform for Athletes

"For decades, cheerleaders have inspired crowds and built community spirit, yet many have faced an uncertain future post-graduation," remarked Adam Blumenfeld, CEO of Varsity Brands. With the launch of the Pro Cheer League, athletes will no longer have to confront the end of their cheerleading journey with graduation. Instead, they will be given new opportunities within a sport that has long deserved a professional spotlight.

As the league gears up for its opening season, team selections will begin in September. Athletes interested in joining this revolutionary platform can find application details and subscribe for updates at www.procheerleague.com. The excitement surrounding this initiative is palpable, and it promises to be a game-changer in the world of cheerleading.

About Varsity Spirit

Founded in 1974, Varsity Spirit has been at the forefront of transforming cheerleading into the athletic spectacle it is today. With a commitment to safety, entertainment, and community spirit, Varsity Spirit serves as the leading global source for cheerleading, dance team, and performing arts resources. Their innovative uniforms, educational camps, and competitions serve to enrich the experiences of over a million athletes every year. To learn more about Varsity Spirit or to follow the journey of the Pro Cheer League, visit varsity.com or follow @ProCheerLeague on Instagram.