Atlanta, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta United’s President and CEO Garth Lagerwey has announced an immediate and indefinite leave of absence to focus on medical treatment for his cancer diagnosis. The club, along with AMB Sports and Entertainment, is providing full support during this challenging time. In Lagerwey’s absence, daily operations will be managed by Chris Henderson, Dimitrios Efstathiou, and Sarah Kate Noftsinger. Despite the difficulties, Lagerwey feels encouraged about his treatment’s progress and looks forward to returning to the club.
Atlanta
Atlanta United announced that President and CEO Garth Lagerwey is taking an immediate and indefinite leave of absence. This decision is to allow Lagerwey to focus on medical treatment and recovery related to his cancer diagnosis. The club and AMB Sports and Entertainment (AMBSE) are providing full support during his treatment. There is currently no timetable for Lagerwey’s return to the club.
During Lagerwey’s absence, day-to-day operations will be handled by Chief Soccer Officer Chris Henderson, Senior Vice President of Strategy Dimitrios Efstathiou, and Chief Business Officer Sarah Kate Noftsinger. All three executives will continue reporting to AMBSE CEO Rich McKay. Lagerwey has emphasized his need to focus fully on his health and ongoing cancer treatment, expressing gratitude for the club’s consideration of his health needs during this challenging time.
Lagerwey has expressed encouragement regarding the progress of his treatment and the long-term outlook. This is not the first instance of his leave; he previously announced an indefinite leave for treatment in July, with the prognosis for a complete recovery being encouraging.
Garth Lagerwey has been the president and CEO of Atlanta United since November 2022. Before joining Atlanta United, he served for eight years as the general manager and president of soccer for the Seattle Sounders. This announcement comes during a transition for the franchise, which has recently seen the firing of head coach Ronny Deila. Additionally, longtime club captain and goalkeeper Brad Guzan has also retired.
Despite these challenges, Lagerwey has emphasized confidence in the leadership team’s ability to navigate the club during his absence. He looks forward to reconnecting with the fans at Mercedes-Benz Stadium upon his eventual return.
Key Facts
- Immediate leave of absence: Garth Lagerwey taking indefinite leave.
- Support during treatment: AMB Sports and Entertainment providing full support.
- Management during absence: Chris Henderson, Dimitrios Efstathiou, and Sarah Kate Noftsinger handling operations.
- History with the club: Lagerewy has been CEO since November 2022.
- Previously: Served as general manager and president of soccer for Seattle Sounders.
- Current club environment: Transition period with recent changes in head coach and retirement of a key player.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Garth Lagerwey taking a leave of absence?
Garth Lagerwey is taking an immediate and indefinite leave of absence to focus on medical treatment and recovery related to his cancer diagnosis.
When did Garth Lagerwey join Atlanta United?
Garth Lagerwey has been the president and CEO of Atlanta United since November 2022.
Who will handle day-to-day operations during Lagerwey’s absence?
Day-to-day operations will be handled by Chief Soccer Officer Chris Henderson, Senior Vice President of Strategy Dimitrios Efstathiou, and Chief Business Officer Sarah Kate Noftsinger.
What other recent changes has Atlanta United undergone?
The franchise has recently fired head coach Ronny Deila and seen the retirement of longtime club captain and goalkeeper Brad Guzan.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Immediate Action | Indefinite leave of absence for treatment |
| Leadership Transition | Operations will be managed by Chris Henderson, Dimitrios Efstathiou, and Sarah Kate Noftsinger |
| Career History | Joined Atlanta United in November 2022, previous GM and president of Seattle Sounders |
| Club Changes | Firing of head coach and retirement of key player |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Atlanta United Official Statement
- ESPN: Garth Lagerwey Leave for Cancer Treatment
- Fox 5 Atlanta: Health Battle Leave
- Wikipedia
- Google Search: Garth Lagerwey
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
