Underwood Law Says Deadline Fast Approaching for Claims in Class Action Varsity Cheerleader Lawsuit

Settlement Does Not End Antitrust Allegations

Underwood Law says the May 5, 2025, deadline is fast approaching to file claims in Jones v. Varsity Brands, LLC, a lawsuit that alleged antitrust violations by cheerleading giant Varsity Brands. Varsity settled the suit for $82.5 million while denying wrongdoing, and the court did not rule on the allegations. Varsity previously settled a similar antitrust lawsuit for $43.5 million.

Class members have until May 5, 2025, to submit claims in the Jones case. Claims and a description of who is covered by the settlement can be found here. The class covers anyone that “indirectly paid Varsity or any Varsity subsidiary or affiliate, from December 10, 2016, through March 31, 2024, for: (a) registration, entrance, or other fees and expenses associated with participation in one or more Varsity Cheer Competitions; (b) Varsity Cheer Apparel; (c) Varsity Cheer Camp Fees; or (d) accommodations at one or more Varsity Cheer Competitions.”

The lawsuit alleged that the Defendants obtained and maintained control over the All Star Cheer and school cheer events marketplace, through acquisitions of rivals, exclusive dealing agreements, and alleged collusion with the United States All Star Federation (USASF), in violation of antitrust laws. The lawsuit alleged that this anticompetitive conduct caused Varsity to overcharge for participation in competitive cheer competitions, camps and apparel.

But Did Anything Really Change?

While these cases have resulted in some changes in Varsity’s operations, a lawsuit filed in Amarillo, Texas, alleges there are still antitrust issues surrounding Varsity’s domination of the sport.

Last year KKR, one of the largest private-equity firms in the world, bought Varsity and its affiliate companies from Bain Capital for a reported $4.75 billion.

“We know that a number of lawsuits were settled prior to the sale,” said Attorney Mitzi S. Mayfield of Underwood Law, who represents Amarillo plaintiff Open Series, owner of the Open Championship Series. “If our case goes to trial there is the real potential that there will be significant changes in the competitive environment regarding this sport that will benefit the families that participate and others who participate in the sport.”

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