Bay FC GM leaves team in middle of inaugural season

Lucy Rushton resigned from her position as general manager of Bay FC on Tuesday just months into the expansion franchise's inaugural season in the National Women's Soccer League.

Matt Potter will serve as Bay FC's head of football and interim sporting director, the club said in a release.

Rushton was hired for the role in June 2023 and had a hand in building Bay FC's initial roster. She helped the club acquire Zambian forward Racheal Kundananji for a $788,000 transfer fee, breaking the women's soccer transfer record.

In a statement, Rushton did not reveal her reason for resigning but thanked Bay FC for her time leading their front office.

"Being a part of building a new club in the sport I love is something that I will forever be grateful for," Rushton said. "I am extremely proud of all of the players, coaches and staff at Bay FC for what they have already accomplished and what I know they will continue to build. The club was founded with the vision of building a premier global sports franchise on and off the field and I have no doubt this group will make that a reality. I love this team, group of people and our fans. It has been a privilege and honor to lead them into the inaugural season and I will always hold Bay FC close to my heart.

"This has been one of the hardest decisions of my life, but I believe the right one for me right now. I am excited for and look forward to my next chapter."

Rushton, a native of England, previously served as general manager of MLS franchise D.C. United from 2021-22.

Bay FC sit in 11th place in the 14-team league with a 5-9-0 record (15 points).

--Field Level Media