Parents trusting a youth sports organization made a horrifying discovery: a coach with a dark secret was entrusted with their children. Thomas Whiteman, known as Tommy, a former professional baseball player, was quietly listed as a head coach for the Texas Home Educators Sports Association (THESA) Riders.
Unbeknownst to many, Whiteman is a registered sex offender, a fact concealed from parents until a concerned watchdog group brought it to light. His registration, extending until 2030, stems from a 2010 conviction for online solicitation of a minor – communicating sexually explicit material to a 14-year-old girl.
THESA, a Christian organization serving homeschooled students, distributed a waiver to parents, a document that shockingly failed to mention Whiteman’s criminal history. Instead, it presented a carefully crafted narrative of redemption, framing him as a reformed sinner sharing his story.
The waiver described Whiteman’s past as “dark shadows,” detailing his struggles with self-indulgence and a dramatic rescue from sin. It emphasized his desire to guide young athletes with Christian principles and share his “freedom” found through faith, even directing parents to his personal testimony.
A parent, speaking out after the revelation, expressed disbelief that the waiver omitted any mention of the sex offense, only alluding to struggles with pornography. This omission raises serious questions about transparency and the safety of children involved in the program.
Whiteman’s presence extended beyond THESA. He also operated a softball facility called Redemptive Sports, where his website featured a similarly unsettling “testimony” section. This account details a sting operation involving an undercover police officer, framing the arrest as both the “worst” and “best” day of his life.
The situation has prompted a review by the Carroll Independent School District (CISD), which had previously approved Whiteman as an off-campus activity provider. While the district states he was only used by one student at a parent’s request in the 2022-23 school year, the incident has understandably raised alarm.
The case highlights a disturbing lapse in vetting procedures and a troubling prioritization of a narrative of redemption over the fundamental safety and well-being of vulnerable young athletes. It forces a difficult conversation about forgiveness, accountability, and the responsibility to protect children.
The revelation has sparked outrage and demands for answers, leaving parents grappling with the unsettling reality that a registered sex offender was entrusted with the care of their children under the guise of faith and sports.
