The next era of cheerleading has officially arrived. Varsity’s Pro Cheer League is turning up the volume in 2026 with paid athletes, high-stakes matches, and a professional platform never before seen in competitive cheer.
The league announced finalized rosters for its four inaugural teams: Atlanta Air, Dallas Drive, Golden State Grit, and Miami Metal. While original projections set each team at 30 athletes, final numbers landed around 25 per roster, making this debut season intensely competitive. Tryouts were held in September 2025 through a two-phase process: a standardized video submission and team-specific interviews.
Atlanta Air, led by cheer veterans Casey Jones and Roger Schonder, features some of the biggest names in All Star and college cheer. Headliners include Angel Rice, known worldwide for her tumbling power; Aaron Goley, and Will Beausoleil.
Dallas Drive is stacked with talent under the leadership of Brad Habermel, Angela Rogers, and Jody Melton of Cheer Athletics fame. Maddy Brum (Netflix’s “Cheer”), Terrance Taylor, Joseph Harris, and Macie Dickey bring star power and legacy.
Golden State Grit, the California entry managed by Tannaz Kirichkow, showcases top-tier West Coast athletes like Ashlie Modabber, Gia Gangitano, and Alejandro Guerrero. Several team members hail from STUNT and former World Championship rosters.
Miami Metal, coached by Kristen and Victor Rosario of Top Gun Miami, combines world champ intensity with big-stage presence. Confirmed athletes include Gabi Butler, Kory Little, Ryan Claunch, and Kayla Soltero.
What Is the Pro Cheer League?
The Pro Cheer League is the first professional league for cheer athletes ages 18 and older. Athletes will be paid part-time employees of Varsity Spirit, receive compensation for their appearances, and be eligible for performance-based bonuses.
For decades, competitive cheer has stopped short of the professional tier. The Pro Cheer League changes that—offering elite cheerleaders a paid platform for performance, innovation, and recognition.
Maddie Gardner, Varsity Spirit’s Content Marketing Manager, said in an interview with Cheer Daily: “This is the first time that cheerleaders will be paid to do what they love. There was no outlet past competition teams. For so many athletes, the last time they competed was the last time they ever would. Until now.”
She added, “There’s interest in streaming, documentary series, and storytelling that follows these athletes. We want to help them get sponsorships and create a future for them to where they can do this as long as they want to.”
Inaugural Commissioner of the Pro Cheer League
The Pro Cheer League also announced the appointment of John Newby as the inaugural Commissioner of the Pro Cheer League.
As Commissioner, a role vital to the credibility, structure, and success of any professional sports organization, Newby will oversee the league’s mission, identity, and future, guiding competition rules, governance, and safety standards to align with professional sports. His responsibilities will include ensuring the league operates with the same rigor and standards as other professional leagues.
“John’s collaborative leadership style will help unify the team owners, coaches, and athletes, fostering a culture of inclusion, professionalism, and excellence,” said Varsity Spirit President Bill Seely. “I have no doubt that John will help strengthen the league’s presence and purpose, establishing the Pro Cheer League as a respected, values-driven organization.”
Match Format & Season Structure
Each Pro Cheer League match includes three rounds:
- Round 1 & 2: Head-to-head bracket-style matchups, testing compulsory skills like basket tosses, standing and running tumbling, and elite stunts.
- Round 3: A creative routine set to music lasting 2 to 3 minutes, blending traditional All Star elements with elevated performance judging.
Scoring will be immediate and displayed publicly at events to keep fans engaged and the pacing tight.
2026 Season Schedule
- Jan. 16: JAMfest Super Nationals – Indianapolis, IN
- Feb. 13: CHEERSPORT Nationals – Atlanta, GA
- Feb. 27: NCA All-Star Nationals – Houston, TX
- Mar. 13: USA All Star Super Nationals – Anaheim, CA
- Mar. 27: One Up Grand Nationals (Pro Cheer League Championship) – Nashville, TN
Each event will serve as a national showcase of elite cheer talent and will include interactive fan experiences and potential streaming coverage.
Athlete Pay, Perks, and Expectations
Pro Cheer athletes are compensated part-time, earning approximately $40 per hour for training, performances, and appearances. Seasonal earnings are estimated between $13,000 and $15,000, which includes hourly wages, travel, lodging, uniforms, and potential bonuses.
Athletes can pursue their own sponsorships, pending league approval, and are permitted to maintain their spots on All Star or college teams if scheduling allows. Athletes are expected to attend regular practices, media events, and league promotional appearances as part of their employment.
Safety and Governance
The Pro Cheer League will be governed by its own board led by Commissioner John Newby and align with safety protocols. These include:
- Annual background checks for all staff
- Mandatory coach certification
- Structured progressions for stunting and tumbling
- Compliance with USASF and USA Cheer standards
Why Now? The Road to Professional Cheer
Varsity sees this league as the natural next step in cheer’s evolution. From STUNT’s NCAA progress to ICU’s Olympic recognition, the groundwork has been laid for professionalization.
The announcement also follows a wave of industry momentum: NBC’s new cheer show, increased visibility via social media, documentaries like “Cheer,” and historic pay raises for NFL squads like the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders.
Varsity President Bill Seely confirmed this vision has been years in the making, and Varsity Brands CEO Adam Blumenfeld echoed the long-term commitment: “This isn’t just a one-season project. We’re building something that can redefine the trajectory of cheerleading for years to come.”
Media & Streaming Plans
Varsity is actively pursuing media deals, including livestreaming and documentary-style coverage that follows athletes and teams throughout the season. While official partners haven’t been confirmed, Varsity’s long-standing relationship with ESPN may signal future collaborations.
Future Growth and Expansion
Expansion is already being discussed. Varsity has invited gym owners, coaches, and stakeholders to express interest in future teams or expansion markets internationally. Additional teams and possibly multiple franchises per city could be announced in coming seasons.
What This Means for the Sport
With over 3.8 million cheerleaders in the U.S. alone, and growing global recognition through the ICU, the Pro Cheer League is a historic advancement for the sport of cheerleading. It offers athletes longevity, visibility, and compensation in a sport that has often lacked post-collegiate options.
From the sidelines to the spotlight, the Pro Cheer League proves that cheerleading deserves its place in the professional sports landscape.
Stay updated with the latest Pro Cheer League coverage and athlete interviews at cheerdaily.net. Join cheer fans worldwide on Instagram and follow Cheer Daily on all platforms.
