The Atlanta Beat fired Head Coach Gareth O'Sullivan Monday with just five games remaining in the WPS season.  Assistant Robbie Nicholson was also let go and James Galanis has been instilled as interim coach.

“We truly respect Gareth and Robbie and thank them both for everything they have contributed to this organization,” said Atlanta Beat General Manager Shawn McGee.  “We wish them all the best and believe our talented players will perform well as they contend for a playoff berth this inaugural season.”

O'Sullivan went just 4-10-5 (17 pts.) in 2010 despite adding several all-stars mid-season from Saint Louis Athletica.  With five games to go, Atlanta is five points out of a playoff spot and next plays Saturday in New Britain, Conn. against the surging Boston Breakers.

Interestingly, Galanis is also the personal trainer of Sky Blue FC and U.S. Women's National Team midfielder Carli Lloyd.  On her Website, Lloyd lists Galanis as her biggest influence.  Galanis is also the owner and director of soccer operations of Universal Soccer Academy in New Jersey.