Florida Flag Football Coach Arrested for Alleged Choking of Teen Player

A 37-year-old Florida man has been arrested for allegedly strangling a teenager during a post-game altercation at a flag football game in Palm Beach County.

Brandon Mayer, identified as the coach, faces a felony charge of battery by strangulation. His 16-year-old daughter was also arrested and charged with misdemeanor battery for allegedly assaulting the same player. The incident occurred on October 20.

Mayer denied putting anyone in a chokehold when questioned by authorities, according to a report from South Florida's CBS affiliate, CBS12.com. His daughter's alleged actions began after the 15-year-old victim, Sophia Lopez, made a comment about her losing the game. Lopez stated that the unidentified 16-year-old then grabbed her by the hair and pulled her to the ground.

Witness statements indicate that Mayer then intervened and allegedly placed Lopez in a chokehold for approximately 15 seconds. Lopez reported that the experience was painful and that she felt she was losing consciousness. She was later transported to a local hospital for evaluation.

Sophia's father, Ryan Lopez, attempted to intervene and separate Mayer from his daughter. He stated that Mayer was pulling Sophia in a way that was not the "common-sense" approach to de-escalate. Ryan Lopez also reported that Mayer's daughter then pulled his necklace and kicked him in the face with her cleat.

Witnesses reportedly photographed Mayer's license plate and provided the information to the Palm Beach County Sheriff's deputies, leading to the arrests. The Lopez family told CBS12.com that Mayer and his daughter have been removed from the league.

Mayer was released from jail on Thursday after posting a $7,500 bond. Flag football has seen increasing popularity, particularly in Florida, where over 10,000 girls participate in organized leagues at the high school level. The sport is slated to debut in the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.