Schubert, who served four-and-a-ahalf years in the job, was placed on a 60-day leave in September with the reasons for the split kept private.

No more details on the rift were forthcoming in USA Swimming's statement confirming the move.

"I continue to have the highest admiration and respect for Mark Schubert and for his accomplishments and contributions to the sport," USA Swimming executive director Chuck Wielgus said.

"I am saddened by this parting of ways as I was the one who sought out and recruited Mark for the job at USA Swimming.

"I know Mark still has much to give to the sport he loves and wish him the best in his future endeavours."

Former USA Swimming President Jim Wood will serve as the national team leader on an interim basis, with the national governing body seeking to name a new director by next spring.

The advertised post, not exactly the one Schubert had, would be "charged with providing vision and leadership for America's top coaches and elite athletes."

Schubert guided US swimmers at six Olympics and took the revamped role as national team coach after the Athens Games.

Schubert claimed he was totally caught off guard by his firing.

"Regarding any of the specifics in terms of the reasons given, there's really nothing else for Mark and I to express," said Michael Bernstein, Shcubert's lawyer.

"Feel free to ask USA Swimming."

Schubert said he had never received a negative job review until Wielgus "expressed displeasure with me" in August at the biggest meet of the year, the Pan Pacific Championships in Irvine, California.

"At that same meeting, he said I could have my job through 2016 or 2020," Schubert said.

"Other than that, there's been only praise.

"In fact, after the Pan Pacific Championship, Chuck Wielgus shook my hand several times, looked me in the eyes and said, 'Great job, coach.'"


Related stories
November 2010: US swim coach set to be replaced for London 2012