The Faces of Varsity All Star

The Faces of Varsity All Star

Varsity All Star is made up of former cheerleaders, dancers, coaches, and gym owners just like you. We are dedicated to the success and growth of athletes by providing a competitive, fun, and safe environment for them to demonstrate their athleticism and hard work.

We are honored to serve our customers by region. In each region, we provide a localized team to assist gym owners and coaches throughout the year. Get familiar with some of the faces in your region that you will begin to recognize through communication and onsite at events.

Midwest Region Staff Spotlight

Alisa Burch

General Manager

Alisa Burch

General Manager

Alisa’s love for the sport of cheer and dance started at an early age. Classically trained in ballet, jazz, and tap, she has a 15-year background in dance. After graduating from the University of Louisville, she began her career with The JAM Brands in 2008 and joined the Varsity family in 2015. Alisa has served many roles, and at the core of each one, strong customer focus and efficient and effective event operations has been the guiding force. Alisa and her husband, Nick, live in Louisville, KY with their children Stella, Jackson, and Millie.

“Along this journey, I have been lucky to meet so many amazing, hardworking individuals who work day in and day out to provide an incredible experience for young athletes. It is a privilege to lead our Midwest team in creating memorable opportunities – it should always be ‘More than a competition, an experience!’ I promise, we will always strive to exceed your expectations.”

Amber Koster

Director of All Star Experience

Amber Koster

Director of All Star Experience

Amber has been involved in the sports of cheer and dance for nearly 30 years. As a founder of Champion Spirit Group, Nation's Choice & DanceFest, Amber spent many years in customer service, operations and scoring, but has also been involved in the sport as an athlete, coach & program owner. The variety of perspectives has provided Amber with a unique view on the industry and a constant drive for fair and consistent events.

``I have enjoyed being able to combine the sports that I love with the skills in business and conflict resolution. The role of DASE provides such a unique opportunity to help quickly change the trajectory of our region to best suit the needs of our coach & gym owner partners. I look forward to meeting even more of our amazing Midwest teams and help make Varsity the best that it can be...for you!``

Jessica Lomba

Registration Supervisor

Jessica Lomba

Registration Supervisor

Jessica grew up dancing at a dance studio starting at age 5 up until age 18 encompassing all styles. She also danced for her High School Dance Team and won UDA Nationals, then continued to dance at the University of Kentucky her Freshman year of college. Jessica started working for The JAM Brands in 2008 and joined the Varsity family in 2015. Jessica has been in the Registration Department since day 1 and loves every aspect of it – customer service, communication, computer systems, policies & procedures, etc. Jessica and her husband Joe, who also works for Varsity, share a daughter named Jolee and live in Louisville, Kentucky.

Debi Larson

Customer Experience

Debi Larson

Customer Experience

Debi started as the director of the local cheer program in her county. Her passion for the sport lead to co-owning a gym and coaching all star cheerleading. She began her career with Varsity in 2006 with CHEERSPORT. She served in many roles including director of sales, event director, registration specialist, judge coordinator, facilities coordinator, and scoring director. In her new role, Debi will work to provide leadership and direction to our Customers. Debi and her husband, Jim, live in Acworth, GA. Their blended family consists of 4 children and 6 grandchildren.

“It is a privilege and honor to have a career where you get to make a difference in athlete’s lives. My passion for our sport continues to grow as the sport of cheer keeps advancing. I feel privileged to work side by side with all of you as Varsity All Star continues to educate, train, and provide life skills that lead the way for our future leaders.”

Alexyea Ward

Sales & Experience Advisor

Alexyea Ward

Sales & Experience Advisor

Alexyea has 14 years of all star experience as an athlete, as well as 2 years of collegiate experience cheering for the University of Kentucky and 3 years coaching all star. Her major accomplishments as an all star athlete include MAJORS Grand Champion, CHEERSPORT Champion and World Champion! Cheerleading has played such an important role throughout Alexyea’s entire life and she is thrilled to experience the industry from a different perspective.

Recently being an all star coach, she has walked a few miles in your shoes as coaches. That said, she understands the needs of positive customer support and the timeliness of customer communication. Her goal is to create a memorable experience for all athletes!

Andi Hass

Sales & Experience Advisor

Andi Hass

Sales & Experience Advisor

You may recognize me as an Event Coordinator, having planned American Cheer Power Grand Nationals for the past 2 seasons. I am thrilled to step into an advisor role and to build experiences and relationships that will last a lifetime.

I grew up in the cheerleading industry and one of my favorite accomplishments is winning the inaugural D2 Summit my senior year! I have 2 years of collegiate experience, spent 4 years coaching all star, and worked 6 years on UCA Staff. In my free time you can find me relaxing with my new fiancé and our dog, cheering for the Atlanta Braves, traveling, going froggin or shopping!

Griffin Myers

Sales & Experience Advisor

Griffin Myers

Sales & Experience Advisor

Griffin has over 20 years of experience in the All-Star cheerleading industry. Residing in Nashville, TN, Griffin is the current Midwest Sale and Experience Advisor for Kentucky and Missouri, enhancing the customer’s overall experience throughout the competition season. He is a former Junior Olympian power tumbler and started his cheerleading career in 2003 as both a competitive high school and all-star cheerleader. He is a 3-time NCA Collegiate National Champion with the University of Louisville, a 3-time All-Star World Champion, and an ICU Gold Medalist with Team USA. Griffin has traveled all over the US and Canada producing Varsity All Star competitions, teaching camps, choreography, and judging. He is both a certified Varsity All Star Judge and USASF Legality Official.

“Over the past 20 years, I have been an all-star athlete, coach, judge, event producer, and choreographer. I want to create positive, memorable experiences each season in the Midwest Region. My “job” is to produce events – I choose to see it as an opportunity to create a special experience. Your staff, families and athletes deserve to feel welcomed, appreciated, and celebrated.”

Lane Pindell

Registration Specialist

Lane Pindell

Registration Specialist

Lane has been involved in the industry of Cheer and Dance since an early age, from leaving the dance studio going straight to cheer practice. From dancing down Main Street U.S.A. at Disney’s Magic Kingdom to walking tall on stilts for Disney Live Entertainment offerings.

While Lane was fulfilling a career with the Walt Disney World Resort as a Shows/Parades Performer as well as living the Suite Life on Deck as a Character Animation Captain/Performer with Disney Cruise Line, he was also dedicated to being involved with events when he could. After juggling a full-time performer career and being core staff at events for numerous years, Lane’s passion for the sport lead to his career with Varsity All Star.

Lane wants to give a huge shout out to YOU. Thank you for making each season one to remember.

Leah Cunigan

Registration Specialist

Leah Cunigan

Registration Specialist

Leah has been involved in the dance industry for 17 years. She has had extensive training in jazz, tap, ballet, hip-hop, modern, lyrical, and contemporary. As a young competitive dancer, she traveled on a competitive dance team with her local studio and her high school winning the solo competition through the Universal Dance Association. Leah has trained with The Rockettes, Broadway shows such as “The Lion King”, “Wicked”, & “Legally Blonde” , along with some of the most intricate collegiate dance teams in the US. She attended and danced at the University of Southern Mississippi (SMTTT!)

Alongside being a full time Varsity All Star employee, she currently teaches competitive studio dance, leads the dance instruction in a winter guard program, is a visual judge for Bands of America, judges for multiple national & regional dance competitions, and travels to studios as an independent choreographer. Her choreography is featured every year in the famous Macys Day Parade through the color-guard program and she has choreographed for Epcot Parades at Disney World.

After years in the industry she decided to return to school to obtain a degree in Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring: Modernism, Ballet,& Riots through Harvard University. Today, Leah enjoys traveling, spending time with friends & family (especially her cat Pique), educating others, spreading the joy of dance, & is a big Elvis fan!

Lexi Kabb

Event Coordinator

Lexi Kabb

Event Coordinator

Lexi’s passion for cheerleading is everlasting! She started in all star cheerleading when she was 5. She has retired as a 4X Collegiate National Champion, 2X World Champion, & a 3rd Place finish at the NCA Stunt competition. After graduating from the University of Louisville, she began her career with Varsity.

Lexi has faced many obstacles that were meant for destruction, but only made her stronger. During her senior year on Louisville All-Girl she ruptured her achilles. In that time she learned the true definition of gratitude, patience, resilience, and a redefined love for the sport of cheerleading. She made a full recovery leading her team to a victory at College Nationals & The Cheerleading Worlds in the same year!

At events, Lexi's goal is to give back to the little girls’ shoes she was once in by emphasizing the athlete experience! She also strives to provide excellent customer service! Lexi loves helping people, meeting new people, & enjoying new experiences!

Sami Davis

Event Coordinator

Sami Davis

Event Coordinator

Sami was born and raised in the Chicagoland area where she started her passion for dance and now has been a part of the dance industry for 22 years. She is classically trained in Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical/Contemporary, Tap, Hip Hop and Modern. After graduating high school, Sami joined the official University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana Dance team for her 4 years of college.

While in college Sami started her journey with Varsity Spirit as a UDA instructor. Within her 8 years with UDA, she went to the All-American Parade in London, helped direct the Varsity Spirit Spectacular parade in Orlando and worked/choreographed for many high school and college dance team programs throughout the country. Alongside being a UDA Instructor and UDA event Director, she also coached a high school dance team that took top 3 in IHSA state for many years.

After joining the varsity spirit family in 2016, Sami has continued her career with Varsity All Star as an Event Coordinator! “Working for Varsity Spirit is one of the most rewarding careers. My goal as an event coordinator is to strive to provide a customer experience that gives back to the industry that gave me so much growing up.”

Lexi Oster

Marketing Specialist

Lexi Oster

Marketing Specialist

Lexi was born and raised in Knoxville, TN, and graduated from the University of Tennessee (go vols!). She married her high school sweetheart in 2021 and is a dog mom to her golden retriever, Paisley. Lexi spent 13 seasons as an athlete in the all star cheerleading industry and competed at the highest level. She spent several seasons coaching a CheerABILITIES team where she learned the impact that our industry can have in every role. She strives to be a voice for athletes and encourage personal and professional development. Lexi has worked for Varsity All Star conjointly since 2015 and has a passion for turning imaginations into reality, which ultimately landed her in the Marketing Specialist role.

Kyle Hicks

Event Planner

Kyle Hicks

Event Planner

Kyle resides near Louisville, KY and is a current Event Planner for Varsity All Star - Midwest. Kyle has been involved in all-star cheer for over 15 years as an athlete or a coach. After high school Kyle attended Indiana University where he obtained his BS in Informatics. “You will always find you way back home” has always been engraved in Kyle’s head from a very young age – which is the reason Kyle is with Varsity All Star today. Being involved in this industry in some way, shape or form has been one of the biggest blessings. Varsity over many years has had such an impact on so many lives; including Kyle’s and to be a part of something so great is truly amazing. Kyle looks forward to seeing you at an event soon!

Northeast Region Staff Spotlight

Tara Russell

General Manager

Tara Russell

General Manager

Lura Fleece

Director of All Star Experience

Lura Fleece

Director of All Star Experience

Lura has over 30 years in the cheerleading industry as an athlete, coach and event producer. In 1992, as the coach for University of Maryland, she hosted her first fundraising cheer competition and began to experience first-hand the excitement of being an event producer. In 1999, she started Spirit Unlimited which ultimately became Epic Brands. Epic Brands was acquired by Varsity Brands in 2017 and Lura has since transitioned to become the Director of All-Star Experience for the Northeast region. She feels at home being in this new position as her passion is in serving her customers and creating successful opportunities for athletes and coaches. Lura lives in Glenwood, MD with her husband Rick and their 3 children Hailey (24) Alex (21) and Trey (18).

``Being able to have a career in something that you love is pretty amazing. I love being a part of a team that creates new ideas and gets to see them come to life. There are many times in my career I have walked into an event and say “wow” we did this!``

Orry Clayborne

Scoring Experience Specialist

Orry Clayborne

Scoring Experience Specialist

Orry is originally from Nashville and cheered at the University of Tennessee. He moved to Memphis to be a part of the UCA Competition and Special Events Team as an Event Director and Judges Coordinator. Being a part of UCA is where Orry found his interest in scoring for both school and all star. Orry has now been with Varsity Spirit for 18 years! Every season he is excited to watch teams progress by pushing their difficulty, while concentrating on execution. When Orry is not at events, he loves to travel to warm and tropical locations to seek adventure and soak up the sun!

Having judged Rec, School, College and All-Star Championships, Orry is excited to share his knowledge and background of scoring, legality rules and deductions to ensure your teams have a great season!

Season Daugherty

Sales & Experience Advisor

Season Daugherty

Sales & Experience Advisor

Season Daugherty has been a part of the cheerleading industry for the past 22 years. She started as an athlete at the age of 8 and grew up in a Maryland all-star gym. After winning NCA and Worlds several times, she went to college and cheered at the University of Maryland. They were NCA College National Champions two years in a row and she graduated with honors. She began working for Epic Brands after college, which became a part of Varsity a few years ago. She is excited for her new role as the Northeast regions Customer Experience Manager, based out of the Baltimore Varsity Brands office. She loves helping programs throughout the competition season, as well as playing a large role at events to make sure the athletes have a memorable experience!

``Cheerleading has played such an important role in my life and has been a part of every memory, moment, and big decision I have had to make. From how to manage time, ways to juggle life and sports, to picking a college, being a cheerleader has had a major impact on who I am today! I hope to continue to have an influence on future cheerleaders by helping them fall in love with the sport that made me who I am today. I enjoy watching the industry grow and being a part of its success. Varsity events had an impact on my experience and most brands we have today are competitions that I fell in love with when I was a child.``

Taylor Boardley

Sales & Experience Advisor

Taylor Boardley

Sales & Experience Advisor

Taylor has been surrounded by cheerleading since she was 3 years old, which has helped her develop a passion for it. Her family members were all cheerleaders, therefore she had a strong affinity for the sport. Taylor has experience in all aspects of cheerleading, including recreational, all-star, college, NCA staffer, and now professionally with the Baltimore Ravens. Taylor began her career working events for the Epic Brands in 2017, before the acquisition. In 2021, she became a core employee in the Varsity Northeast Office, starting out as an assistant operational support and transitioned to a Registration Specialist. She enjoys coming full circle and living out her cheerleading fantasies all through Varsity. Taylor truly enjoys working events and watching our industry continuously develop into what it is today. Taylor holds many titles in the cheerleading industry, but her favorite one of all is being a mother to her 3-year-old daughter Taelynn.

Christy Wehner

Director of Operational Excellence

Christy Wehner

Director of Operational Excellence

Christy, along with her Business Administration and Operational experience, has an extensive dance, cheerleading and gymnastics background. For over 25 years, she has worked within the cheer and dance industry as well as served on several, essential boards and committees which helped establish new concepts and dealt with emerging issues with the industry. As a Director of Operational Excellence in the Northeast, she will be overseeing several aspects of the Northeast events.

She is a grandmother of five and currently lives with her husband Rich in Havre de Grace, MD.

Brittany Danner Headshot

Brittany Danner

Operational Excellence Supervisor

Brittany Danner

Operational Excellence Supervisor

Brittany has been involved in the Cheerleading world since 2003 where she started cheering for her local Recreation program. Brittany has both Cheered and Coached at various levels from 2003-2016. Obtaining her Bachelors of Business Administration with an emphasis in Hospitality from Marymount University has played a key role in her current position at Varsity as an Operational Excellence Supervisor. Brittany currently lives in Glen Burnie, Maryland with her boyfriend Austin and her cat Zoey.

When Brittany isn’t coordinating events, she likes to travel as much as she can! She also enjoys boating/fishing, going to the movies and hanging out with friends & family.

Southeast Region Staff Spotlight

Jim Thorp

General Manager Southeast

Jim Thorp

General Manager Southeast

Mia Bagby

Director, Operational Excellence

Mia Bagby

Director, Operational Excellence

Mia grew up in Orlando, FL where she was on the dance team at Dr. Phillips High School. She attended the University of Florida, graduating with degrees in Advertising and Business. Mia has worked in the cheer industry since 1996 and has served many roles including Apparel Manager, Registration Director, and Brand Manager. She is excited for the challenges of her most recent position of Director of Operational Excellence and enjoys working with the talented Southeast team.
Mia lives in Gainesville, FL with her husband Darrell, sons Donovan (20) and Max (13) and daughter Leila (16).
“I am so blessed to have a job that I love and look forward to every day. I get to collaborate with friends that have become family and together we deliver exceptional events and connect with athletes every day.”

Zach Pennix

Director of All Star Experience

Zach Pennix

Director of All Star Experience

Zach has more than 18 years’ experience in the All Star cheerleading industry as an athlete, coach, choreographer and event producer. He has won multiple National and World Championships as a coach and athlete. He also won 3 UCA Collegiate National Titles with the University of Kentucky. He has also notably performed in Bring it On: The Musical on Broadway.
Zach’s passion for the sport lead to his career with Varsity. He served in many roles including Encore Championships Brand Manager, Judges and Scoring Coordinator, Event Director, Logistics Manager and Choreographer. During his time as a Varsity All Star Judges and Scoring Coordinator, Zach has garnered praise from many top judges and gym owners in the country.
In his current role, Zach will work with our event coordinators to provide the best possible event experience for our customers.
``Cheerleading has changed the course of my life in such a positive way. I am grateful and honored to be a part of a team that strives to duplicate those experiences for young athletes now, and for years to come.``

Michael Bolden

Supervisor, Operational Excellence

Michael Bolden

Supervisor, Operational Excellence

Michael got his start in cheerleading based on a dare between him and his best friend to try out for his High School cheer squad. Thankfully, he still has that same best friend to this day, and he has now been involved with cheer & dance for the past 37 years.

Michael was born in Columbus, OH and lived there until he graduated from The Ohio State University (GO BUCKS!!!). He then re-located to Chicago where he lived for the next 23 years. During his time in Chicago, Mike received his Master’s Degree from DePaul University in Professional Writing, while also starting a cheer program (Chicago Elite), followed by a Cheer Gym (Cheer Force Athletics), and a Competition Cheer & Dance Company (Team Champion). Michael also served as the Head Cheer & Dance Coach at North Central College for 5 seasons, until he left that program to focus more on his business endeavors. He didn’t leave, however, until his team made Finals and had the chance to compete on the Bandshell at NCA College Nationals!!!

Nowadays, Mike resides in Jacksonville, FL where he serves as the Operational Excellence Supervisor for the Varsity All Star Southeast Region, overseeing the Event Planners and Event Coordinators, along with a few other roles and responsibilities. In his spare time, Mike loves to cook (no baking — he’s terrible at that), reading romance novels, and spending time with friends and family as much as possible. Someday Mike would love to write a novel, but he’ll keep you posted on that one!

Dr. Martin Luther King once said, “If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” Mike holds this message dear to his heart, always doing his best to strive for growth, and excellence, in everything that he does.

Kelly Proctor

Scoring Experience Specialist

Kelly Proctor

Scoring Experience Specialist

With 30 years of experience in the cheerleading industry, Kelly has been judging for over 25 years. Kelly L. Proctor is the former Head Cheerleading Coach and Spirit Coordinator for the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, former owner of Ultimate Cheer, and a New England Patriots Cheerleading Alumni who continues to serve on the NFL Alumni Organization. She is currently a business owner and member of USASF and USA Gymnastics and judged in the all star cheerleading industry for the nearly 30 years. She is a World Champion Coach and Tumbling Instructor who has served as a safety judge since its inception and continues to judge. Kelly is a former NCA Head Instructor and Collegiate Camp Instructor who contributed to curriculum and proudly worked for NCA for 9 years; previously spending 3 years with UCA. Kelly captained the All Girl cheerleading squad at Boston University as an undergraduate and won an NCA collegiate grand national championship title with Northeastern University as a graduate student and also boasts 6 NCA All American titles. She is currently the Scoring Experience Specialist for the Southeast Region for Varsity All Star.

Christina Neal

Senior Sales & Event Advisor

Christina Neal

Senior Sales & Event Advisor

Christie started cheerleading in middle school and continued with many National Championship titles throughout college at the University of Louisville. After college she continued her experiences with performing in Opening Ceremonies for the Olympics, United Football League in Taiwan and the JAL Japan National Championships. She started working for Varsity with camps and has continued her corporate career with many roles including Sales & Event Advisor, Event Director, Registration Specialist, Judge Coordinator, and in Accuscore. Christie currently lives in Charlotte, NC with her husband Sean and stepson Devin.

Paul Domingo

Senior Event Coordinator

Paul Domingo

Senior Event Coordinator

Laura Byrd

Event Coordinator

Laura Byrd

Event Coordinator

Braxton Kinser

Senior Production Coordinator

Braxton Kinser

Senior Production Coordinator

As a previous competitive High School, Allstar, and collegiate cheerleader at Florida State University, Braxton Kinser brings over 25 years of experience to the Industry. He was a head camp instructor for Cheerleading Technique Camps for 7 years in addition to coaching High School and Allstar cheer teams. Braxton began working with The American Championships full time in 2004 and quickly became a fixture helping to administer hundreds of events nationwide. Whether it be in sales previously as a Varsity Allstar Advisor, or in his current position as the Senior Production Coordinator for the Varsity Southeast Office, Braxton has exceled in every role he has held.

Brown Walters

Senior Event Coordinator

Brown Walters

Senior Event Coordinator

Brown got his start in cheerleading as a Junior at the University of North Carolina. Upon graduating, he went into business with Don Collins and co-founded Spirit & Company and All-Star Challenge. Brown has spent the last 27 years cultivating relationships with program owners, coaches, venues, vendors, and colleagues with the goal being to run the best events possible. Brown’s background as a coach, choreographer, and business owner gives him a unique perspective on how to be the best steward he can for our industry.

Brown and his wife, Dana, of 20 years live in Pittsboro North Carolina. They have three children- Mason, 17; Kendall, 14; and Rhett, 6. They are also the proud parents of a French Bulldog and 5 goats and at his house Brown is known as the “Goatfather”.

“The joy and driving force behind my job is the work family I serve. Events are reunions and opportunities to work with those special people I have met though being a part of this industry. Family first with clients and co-workers help create great events”.

Cassandra Gooch

Sales and Experience Advisor

Cassandra Gooch

Sales and Experience Advisor

Ashley Chavez

Event Coordinator

Ashley Chavez

Event Coordinator

Ashley Chavez brings over 20 years of experience to the industry. Her love for cheerleading began in Phoenix, AZ as a competitive High School cheerleader. She found her real passion as a head camp instructor for Cheerleading Technique Camps, as well as working as an elite Legality and Deductions judge for The American Championships for over 15 years before stepping into her role as an Arena Manager. Ashley continued her journey as an All Star coach at Brandon All Stars until accepting a full time position with The Varsity Southeast Office in 2018 where she now serves as an Event Coordinator and IT Lead.

Avielle Chambers

Event Coordinator

Avielle Chambers

Event Coordinator

Jack Fitzgerald

Event Planner

Jack Fitzgerald

Event Planner

Ashley Leubscher

Event Planner

Ashley Leubscher

Event Planner

Katlyn Tidwell

Marketing Specialist

Katlyn Tidwell

Marketing Specialist

Katlyn is from Southaven, MS, and graduated from the University of Mississippi with her bachelor's and master's degree in integrated marketing communications. Katlyn spent her 10 seasons as an athlete in both all star and school cheerleading. In college, Katlyn was a part of the UCA Staff, and became an intern for Varsity Spirit in the marketing department during her final year of graduate school. Katlyn's passion for cheerleading, and love for marketing communications is what led her to her current position within Varsity All Star. During her free time, Katlyn likes to attend workout classes like Orange Theory & Pure Barre and listen to Taylor Swift!

Melissa Stoufflet

Registration Specialist

Melissa Stoufflet

Registration Specialist

Melissa Is a lifelong resident of New Orleans; she loves her city and has a great Joie de Vivre which she loves to share with others.
Melissa developed a love of cheering first with playground cheer and then in high school, especially after attending UCA summer camps. She is also passionate about dancing and studied for 16 years; it was through dancing that she met her husband.
She has an extensive history in banking/finance, management, and education, and she uses that experience to try and offer the best experience for each of our customers.

Josie Womack

Registration Specialist

Josie Womack

Registration Specialist

Josie is from a small town in north Alabama. Her love for the industry started as a cheerleader in high school. After graduating high school, she first joined Varsity by working summer camps and has been with the company since 2019. Josie attended the University of South Alabama where she majored and obtained a degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management before moving into her role with Varsity All Star as a Registration Specialist.
“Cheer has always been such a big part of my life. I am so thankful to Varsity for this opportunity and the amazing people I have met so far. I cannot wait to see what this year will bring!”

Southwest Region Staff Spotlight

Justin Carrier

VP of All Star Experience

Justin Carrier

VP of All Star Experience

Justin started teaching summer camps for NCA in 1995 and began working in the corporate office full-time in 2001. He's served in many roles over the years, including Director of Scoring for Varsity All Star, Vice President of NCA, member of the USASF Rules Committee and Board of Directors, and Southwest Region General Manager.

Justin is currently Vice President of All Star Experience and is committed to making sure our gym owners, coaches and athletes have a top notch journey this season through the world of all star cheer and dance.

``I am proud to have grown up in this industry and have always been passionate about the experience of our coaches and athletes. In addtion to my other responsibilities, I'm excited that its officially my full-time job to ensure the Varsity experience is top notch for our customers.
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Leah Rauch

Director of All Star Experience

Leah Rauch

Director of All Star Experience

Leah began working for American Cheer Power in 2010. She had moved from her hometown of San Antonio, TX to Houston, TX to fulfill her dreams in the cheerleading industry. She was an All-Star coach and choreographer for over ten years. Leah has a deep passion for scoring and safety training, which lead her into being an industry judge for over a decade. She has served many roles in the Varsity All Star Houston office including, registration, social media and most recently as the Judge Coordinator. Leah is beyond excited for her new position as the Director of All Star Experience for the Southwest region. Leah lives in League City, TX with her Husband Rick, son Hudson (3) and stepdaughter Savanna (16).

“I am driven to provide a bridge from the coaches experience directly back to the event producer, like never felt before. I want my love for the industry to be felt in every decision that is made, along the way. I am more excited about the future of Varsity All Star and committed to providing positive experiences for everyone that attends our events.”

Ty Symons

General Manager

Ty Symons

General Manager

Ty has 22 years in the all-star cheer event industry, beginning with American Cheer Power, where he started out driving the truck and setting up events. Eventually, Ty began managing events on his own and helped turn American Cheer Power into the national brand it is today. After merging with Varsity in 2007, Ty became the Vice President of the Varsity Houston office, where he managed multiple brands successfully. Ty is well suited to lead the new Varsity Southwest Region into the future.

Ty and his wife, Kim, of 16 years live in the Houston area and have three daughters – Meagan, 20; Reese, 13; and Brinley, 9. Reese and Brinley are heavily involved in all-star cheer and compete with their gym at many Varsity events every year.

``In all my years in the all-star cheer industry, I have met a lot of wonderful people and made a lot of friends, but what I have enjoyed the most is working with my mom, Regina Symons. She has taught me so much over the years, but the three things that I will take with me as I start my new position with Varsity: honesty, customer service, and always put the athlete first. She taught me that if I do these three things, I will never fail. I am so excited for the future of Varsity and the young lives we will change along the way.``

Katie Davis

Registration Specialist Supervisor

Katie Davis

Registration Specialist Supervisor

Katie began her cheerleading career as a UCA Staff head instructor in 1996. She moved into the All Star world in the American Cheer Power office where she has been for the past 21 years. She has served in many roles including camp director, event director, event registration, and produced brand guidelines/rule books plus many more. She is now the Registration Specialist Supervisor for the Southwest Region. Katie goes above and beyond to meet customer’s needs. Everything Katie does is precise, detailed and she provides excellent customer service. Katie lives in Clear Lake, TX with her husband Jeremy, and their two daughters, Kara (7) and Anna (5).

“The success of our events starts with communication with the customers. My goal is to make sure that every customer interaction I have is helpful, informative and ensures the customer is prepared and excited to attend a Varsity Event.``

West Region Staff Spotlight

Rhett Lewis

General Manager

Rhett Lewis

General Manager

Rhett started cheering his senior year at Miami Palmetto HS in 1987. He continued cheering for the University of Florida from 1988-94 on the varsity squad (captain last season) placing as high as 4th at UCA College nationals. He taught summer camps for UCA and CTC for 9 years while doing choreography and stunt clinics each fall. Rhett was a co-owner and CFO of CTC, Spirit Gear and the American Championships from 1994 until Varsity purchased the group in 2006. Rhett has served as the CFO of the Varsity Gainesville office until last season when he took over the COO role.

“I’ve spent many years invested in getting to know the West Region and customer base through site visits, producing events and building long-lasting relationships. I look forward to working with the West Region VAS team to provide excellent service and events.``

Mandy Ellis

Sales & Experience Advisor

Mandy Ellis

Sales & Experience Advisor

Alana Condon

Director of All Star Experience

Alana Condon

Director of All Star Experience

Alana grew up in Seattle, WA and played golf competitively since she was 6 years old. She continued playing golf earning a college golf scholarship to the University of Nevada. After college Alana moved to Scottsdale, AZ to play golf professionally for 3 years. She began working with the All Things Cheer (ATC) brand in 2008. Her 15 years of experience in the operations and sales within the cheer industry have fueled her passion for the sport! In Alana’s free time she enjoys spending time with her daughter and being a cheer Mom.

Alana loves seeing the excitement of athletes, coaches and fans at events. She enjoys being part of a sport that is competitive and teaches so many life lessons. Alana believes building strong relationships and fun memories through cheerleading is a rewarding experience for all athletes.

Carrie Seller

Sales & Experience Advisor

Carrie Seller

Sales & Experience Advisor

Carrie grew up in Pasadena, CA and was a decorated High School and All Star Cheerleader winning individual and team national titles with Maranatha High School and two bronze medals at the USASF Cheerleading Worlds with CheerForce Diamonds. Her cheerleading career continued in college attending both Kennesaw State University and the University of Louisville – winning 3 NCA Collegiate National Titles and 3 gold medals at the USASF Cheerleading worlds.

``My experiences in the world of cheerleading have lead me served as an Event Director, Judging/Scoring Director, Varsity All Star Advisor and now the Customer Experience Manager for the West Region. I am passionate about our sport and have a deep understanding of the needs of athletes, choreographers, gym owners and coaches. As someone who has competed at the highest level of our sport, my goal is to make the All Star experience smooth, easy and a lot of fun for my customers and the athletes that we serve.``

Sydney Crumbley

Sales & Experience Advisor

Sydney Crumbley

Sales & Experience Advisor

Sydney grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee and has been involved in cheerleading since she was 4 years old as a member of school, recreation, and all-star cheerleading teams. After high school, Sydney was on UCA Staff in the Southeast Region. She was also a student athlete on the All-Girl Cheerleading Team at East Tennessee State University while earning her bachelor’s degree in marketing and sport management. After college, Sydney moved to Phoenix, Arizona to be a part of the Varsity All Star West Region Team as an Advisor. Cheerleading has always been an integral part of Sydney’s life and she loves being a part of a sport that builds relationships and teaches athletes important life lessons. In Sydney’s free time she enjoys watching baseball, traveling, reading, and working out.

Lori Nichols

Senior Registration Specialist

Lori Nichols

Senior Registration Specialist

J'lynn Delgado

Registration Specialist

J'lynn Delgado

Registration Specialist

J’lynn was born and raised in Tucson, Arizona and has been involved in cheerleading since she was 5 years old as an athlete for school, recreation, and all-star cheerleading teams. After high school, J’lynn went into coaching both high school cheerleading at Tucson High Magnet School and all-star cheerleading teams, on top of working on UCA Staff in the West Region. She attended the University of Arizona and earned a bachelor’s degree in general studies with an emphasis on Sports and Society. J’lynn began her position as a registration specialist with the West Region Team after college, which then relocated her to Chandler, Arizona, a short hour and a half away from home. “I am so grateful to remain in the west coast doing a job I love for a sport I have such a passion for.” Cheerleading has always been a vital part of of J’lynn’s life and she absolutely loves being part of the sport, in the years she has learned so many lessons and has built many beautiful relationships. In J’lynn’s free time she enjoys playing with her dog, Reggie, working out at F45 Training and spending time with family!

Ken Porter

Event Coordinatior

Ken Porter

Event Coordinatior

My name is Ken Porter and I’m a graduate of Auburn University, where I was a member of the marching band and student manager for the basketball team. I’ve also spent years as a character performer at Walt Disney World where I was “friends” with multiple characters. Before I started full-time with Varsity , I taught high school English for 5 years and also served as director of basketball operations at Polk State College in Central Florida. I got my start with Varsity as a mascot instructor for UCA! Fun fact, I won the Showcase Showdown on the Price is Right at Night in November 2023! I currently live in Phoenix, AZ! Hope to see you at a West Coast VAS event!

Nic Wurtsmith

Scoring Experience Specialist

Nic Wurtsmith

Scoring Experience Specialist

Nic’s passion for competitive cheerleading was present in the 5-years he competed for the University of Louisville and extended to the many USASF World Championship titles he earned as an All Star Cheerleading Coach and Program Director. Nic has been a part of the Varsity Spirit family for almost a decade. And for over 20 years has been working with teams and programs to take performance floor and has worn many hats behind the scenes producing some of the largest Worlds Bid events for Varsity All Star - and being named Varsity All Star’s Judge of the Year in 2018. He understands the many roles and responsibilities it takes to make a routine happen and drive a team to success and he uses that knowledge and experience to producer quality and high caliber experiences for his customers.

“Varsity All Star is filled with brilliant forward-thinking leaders which is crucial to it’s growth. I am excited to contribute to the All Star Scoring process, make events the best experience they can be for your teams and create opportunities for your programs to excel. It’s important that we remember our “WHY” and that we stay open to change, flexible and eager to learn in this ever changing and evolving sport. Together, we can grow and shape the All Star experience for the better and for future generations to come!”

Varsity All Star Dance Staff Spotlight

Carly Byman

Director of Scoring & Operations

Carly Byman

Director of Scoring & Operations

Hayley Reyes

Director of All Star Experience

Hayley Reyes

Director of All Star Experience

Hayley Reyes has spent over 20 years in the All Star Dance Industry, as well as the Entertainment Industry. Hayley is a former NFL San Diego Charger Girl, and can be seen in multiple music videos, live award shows, and in several National Commercials. In college, Hayley danced for the Nationally Ranked Long Beach State University where she earned her degree in Sociology. Prior to the birth of her son Keaton (6), and daughter Lyndyn (4); Hayley served as the National Dance Director for The JAM Brands, several USASF Boards, and traveled the World as a judge and award winning choreographer for dance teams in Finland, Scotland, United States, Mexico and Japan. Her dance routines have earned several medals at ICU, USASF Dance Worlds, and multiple National Events.

Varsity All Star International Staff Spotlight

Jessica Lomba

Registration Supervisor

Jessica Lomba

Registration Supervisor

Jessica grew up dancing at a dance studio starting at age 5 up until age 18 encompassing all styles. She also danced for her High School Dance Team and won UDA Nationals, then continued to dance at the University of Kentucky her Freshman year of college. Jessica started working for The JAM Brands in 2008 and joined the Varsity family in 2015. Jessica has been in the Registration Department since day 1 and loves every aspect of it – customer service, communication, computer systems, policies & procedures, etc. Jessica and her husband Joe, who also works for Varsity, share a daughter named Jolee and live in Louisville, Kentucky.

Alana Condon

Canada Sales & Experience Advisor

Alana Condon

Canada Sales & Experience Advisor

Alana grew up in Seattle, WA and played golf competitively since she was 6 years old. She continued playing golf earning a college golf scholarship to the University of Nevada. After college Alana moved to Scottsdale, AZ to play golf professionally for 3 years. She began working with the All Things Cheer (ATC) brand in 2008. Her 15 years of experience in the operations and sales within the cheer industry have fueled her passion for the sport! In Alana’s free time she enjoys spending time with her daughter and being a cheer Mom.

Alana loves seeing the excitement of athletes, coaches and fans at events. She enjoys being part of a sport that is competitive and teaches so many life lessons. Alana believes building strong relationships and fun memories through cheerleading is a rewarding experience for all athletes.