Hey, friends 👋 We're back and can't believe how quickly the new season is approaching...

We've got a short newsletter this week - with a wild mix of news, an exciting announcement, and upcoming competitions!

In today’s newsletter:

• Article clarifies no Jeffrey Epstein link to Varsity
• Cali Cheer Show is back, with a twist...(find out what)
• Should (Allstar) cheerleading be called something else?
• & more!

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main news 🗞️

Article Clarifies No Jeffrey Epstein Link to Varsity

*Trigger warning* Please skip reading it if you need to.

📰 The news: A new article from Sportico examines Jeffrey Epstein's (financier and convicted sex offender) investment in football helmet maker Riddell in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It is said that Epstein’s investment ended well before Riddell acquired Varsity Spirit in 1997, and Varsity has confirmed he was never connected to the company — that he had no involvement with Varsity Spirit or Varsity Brands.

🌟 Why it matters: Some reports and Ghislaine Maxwell’s (former associate now in prison) recent statements had suggested Epstein “owned” Riddell, which could be misinterpreted as a link to Varsity. Investigating the timeline shows Epstein’s role was limited to Riddell and did not overlap with Varsity’s growth into Varsity Brands.

📅 What’s next: Riddell later sold off its core sports equipment business and remains a separate company under private equity ownership. Varsity Spirit grew into Varsity Brands, expanding independently into the multi-billion-dollar company we all know.

🔗 Read the full article here.

buzzing this week 🐝

💙 Cali Cheer Show Announces Second Team

• "Season 2 is bigger, bolder, and full of game-changing moments. Smoed isn’t the only team in the spotlight this time…" That's right, season 2 will feature another Worlds team! Find out who's joining here.

💬 Should (Allstar) Cheerleading Be Called Something Else?

• Hear what Coach Lain said on the Cheer UP podcast, plus see the comments here! Do you agree or not?

🔥 The Updated 2025/2026 Large Senior Lineup

• A new era for the division is here & we have a season like no other in front of us! See the teams.

Competitions 🏆

RESULTS & BIDS:

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: CheerCon SA State Series (Australia), United Cheer (New Zealand)

UPCOMING:

🇦🇺 AU/NZ: CheerCon Worlds Experience (Australia), AASCF QLD State Championship (Australia), Vic Starz Championship (Australia)

We can't cover all competitions - these are only some select events.

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