Varsity Spirit Launches First-Ever Professional Cheer League

DALLAS (KDAF) — Varsity Spirit announced the launch of the Pro Cheer League, the first professional cheerleading league in history. Starting in January 2026, top-tier athletes will have the chance to compete under contracts, gain national exposure, and build real careers in a sport that’s long deserved its professional spotlight.

“The Pro Cheer League is the logical next step for cheerleading,” said Varsity Spirit President Bill Seely. “We’re excited to offer this to all the elite athletes out there in America.”

The league kicks off with four inaugural teams located in Miami, Atlanta, Dallas, and San Diego. Over the course of five high-energy events across the country, the teams will go head-to-head in competitions packed with stunts, tumbling passes, basket tosses, choreography, and more.

The 2026 season tour includes:

• Indianapolis (Season Opener)
• Atlanta
  
• Houston
  
• Anaheim
  
• Nashville (Season Finale)

There will be three rounds of competition: two head-to-head challenges, followed by a final traditional routine showcasing creative choreography.

“Pro Cheer is going to be like nothing you’ve ever seen before,” Pro Cheer League spokesperson Maddie Gardner said. “It takes the best of the best in all cheer disciplines and elite athletes. This will be an unreal experience for both athletes and fans who are in the crowd or watching at home.”

Follow along at ProCheerLeague.com and on social @ProCheerLeague for updates and announcements.