The Lompoc Youth Football League, a key part of youth sports in the Lompoc Valley since 1965, is currently facing a controversy involving its president, Jerry Twomey.
Accusations of inappropriate behavior, demeaning name-calling, and a wrongful arrest have led to Twomey’s firing from his leadership role, and a ban from coaching has spread heated discussions on social media, which raised concerns among parents and community members.
A Shocking Incident occurred during Football Practice
According to Tom Rehder, a parent who was attending his son’s football practice was arrested following what he says were false accusations made by Twomey.
In a Facebook post, Rehder described the incident, saying
Rehder promised to seek criminal charges against Twomey, adding that Twomey has been fired as LYFL president and banned from coaching his son.
But Rehder’s post didn’t stop there as he further labeled Twomey “dangerous” to women and children, requesting others to share his message to keep Twomey away from kids.
The post quickly caught the attention of many people, and community members expressed shock, frustration, and sympathy.
One Facebook user commented:
“Wow!!! This is craziness…what’s his damn problem? I’ve know. The guy for a very long time …he used to work for my dad…had no idea he was such a POS…that’s just shitty what he did to you…I’m sorry 😞”
Via Facebook
Another wrote,
“Watching your parents get arrested at your practice yeah that’s traumatizing in itself and embarrassing that’s fkéd up there’s a time and place that wasnt it dude needs to leave you alone period”
Via Facebook
According to Rehder, this Incident was not the First Time Jerry treated Him this Way
He alleged that Twomey had been verbally abusive during the first two weeks of the football season, using derogatory language and cuss words multiple times.
Rehder also claimed Twomey restricted him from sitting in certain areas where other parents were seated and threatened to ban him from practices altogether.
“As the president of football . And just in the first 2 weeks of this season hes called my a bitch several times told me I can’t sit in certain spots where other parents are already sitting . Let’s see threatens me with banning me again”
Via Facebook
But the Most disturbingly, Rehder explained an incident where Twomey made an inappropriate comment to his three-year-old daughter, saying, “I love you, baby girl,” while Rehder was holding her.
He further called Twomey “a sick, sick person” and asked for prayers.
The accusations against Twomey show a troubling side that starkly opposes his image as a dedicated leader of the LYFL.
On the league’s website, Twomey described the league’s dedication to creating opportunities for young athletes in football and cheerleading while promoting equality and diversity.
However, Rehder’s accusations and community reactions raise doubts about Twomey’s leadership suitability.
The incident has raised serious concerns about the safety and management of youth sports programs.
Parents depend on organizations like the LYFL to create a safe and inspiring space for their kids.
Still, Allegations of verbal abuse and misuse of authority threaten this trust and raise concerns about responsibility.
There is no Official Statement From the LYFL that has confirmed Jerry’s Removal
Despite Rehder’s claim that Twomey has been fired as president and barred from coaching, no official statement from the LYFL has confirmed these actions.
The league’s website still lists Twomey as president, though it’s possible the site has not been updated.
The LYFL, a nonprofit dedicated to teaching respect, discipline, and teamwork, is now facing the challenge of addressing these allegations transparently to regain confidence.
Tom Rehder is focusing on seeking justice and protecting his children, and his decision to press charges shows that this situation is not resolved yet.
At the same time, parents are trying to figure out how to support their kids in a program that has faced serious issues.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- The league is part of the Central Coast Youth Football League and is one of the largest chapters in the region.
- Jerry is serving as president for the 2024 season and has been coaching for nearly two decades.
