A heated controversy has erupted in Lugoff, South Carolina, after community members accused Lugoff-Elgin coach Matthew Mendelssohn of spreading hate through his social media posts.
Parents, teachers, and residents have demanded accountability, arguing that someone in charge of mentoring children should not promote divisive or hateful rhetoric.
The uproar began after Mendelssohn shared Facebook stories referencing the death of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
In his Facebook story, he mocked the loss, sharing, “Well guess he has lost the debate” and “Flags at half mast to mourn some Nazi influencer but not to mourn the children that were just shot at school in Colorado.”
These remarks quickly drew attention, with parents and community leaders labeling them as hateful, inappropriate, and unfit for an educator or coach.
Many believe that celebrating or mocking anyone’s death—regardless of political stance—crosses a moral line.
Residents wasted no time voicing their concerns on social media. Allen Jenerette strongly condemned Mendelssohn’s behavior, writing,
“To celebrate murder of any kind is sickening but to promote a religious slaughter takes a true demon spirit! Matthew, you are truly a sick individual.”
Facebook
Others echoed similar sentiments. Randy Bowers questioned how such a figure could remain in a position of influence, saying,
“This guy spewing venom is a coach and very involved with our children in the wrestling program. Why can he continue to wish death on our President and celebrate Charlie Kirk’s death?”
Facebook
The criticism extended beyond personal opinions, with many tagging Kershaw County School District and urging officials to take swift action.
Dozens of commenters demanded Mendelssohn’s removal from the Lugoff-Elgin athletic program.
Terry Jones argued, “Just looking at his Facebook page history should have been enough to not have hired him in the first place. Very bad role model on social media!”
Bryan Jenerette added, “He should be removed from the Demon staff. If not, maybe all the ones above him need to be removed. All across America, the demons are being taken down for this same hatred.”
Community outrage grew even sharper, with residents calling Mendelssohn “sick,” “disgusting,” and a “horrible role model.”
Many compared his case to other teachers in South Carolina who recently lost their jobs over controversial online behavior.
This controversy highlights a broader issue: the expectations placed on coaches and teachers as role models for children.
Parents such as Grace Elizabeth Flowers expressed disbelief, writing,
“This is around our children? This is sickening! We don’t want teachers like this around our children, why would we want coaches?”
Facebook
Others framed the situation as not just a personal matter but a moral one, arguing that hateful speech—especially celebrating death—should have no place in schools.
As pressure mounts on school officials, the Lugoff-Elgin community waits for an official response from the Kershaw County School District regarding Mendelssohn’s future in the athletic program.
Parents and community leaders continue to call for decisive action, insisting that those in positions of influence must uphold higher standards of respect and integrity.
The controversy surrounding Mendelssohn serves as a reminder of how quickly online behavior can spark real-world consequences, especially for those trusted with shaping the lives of young people.
