USOC head resigns

James Scherr abruptly resigned his post Thursday as chief executive director of the United States Olympics Committee, Crain’s Chicago Business reported.

In a news release, Scherr did not explain his departure, and will be replaced on an interim basis by USOC board member Stephanie Street.

The resignation is effective on March 31, less than a week before International Olympics Committee officials are due to visit Chicago to tour proposed venues for the 2016 games.

Ed Hula, who runs the Olympic-watching Web site aroundtherings.com, noted that the USOC recently got a new chairman, Larry Probst, who may have wanted to install his own management team.

In a related statement, Pat Ryan, chairman and CEO of Chicago 2016, said that Street has been active with the Windy City’s bid and that, We are confident in her leadership and in the USOC as our partner.