Chicago Red Stars fire general manager Michelle Lomnicki for 'lapse of judgement'

The Chicago Red Stars have terminated the contract of general manager Michelle Lomnicki effective immediately for reasons of neglect and “lapse of judgment.”

A report by The Athletic revealed Lomnicki knew and failed to inform the Chicago club of the employment of Craig Harrington, who was previously suspended from coaching in the NWSL for two years due to inappropriate conduct while with the Utah Royals.

Harrington was serving as director of coaching at the youth soccer club Chicago Empire FC, an affiliate of the NWSL team. Lomnicki has several ties to the youth team, including her husband Wes Lomnicki, who serves as sporting director.

Lomnicki now departs after just four months in charge as general manager of the Red Stars.

“Yesterday the Board of the Chicago Red Stars ended Michelle Lomnicki’s employment effective immediately after learning about a lapse in judgment to not share important information with club leadership. The Board determined that it is in the best interest of the players, staff and organization to part ways at this time,” the team’s board said in a statement Friday.

The club revealed they were not aware of Harrington’s involvement with the team until contacted by The Athletic for the report.

In turn, Lomnicki gave a statement to defend her actions:

“My performance consultant role with Chicago Empire involved being a reference for girls in the club as they dealt with items such as competitive anxiety or college recruiting. I had no role in any hiring decisions for the club,” she asserted.

Regardless, the team will now look to appoint another general manager.