PHOENIX, Ariz. - - The United States Olympic Committee Board of Directors today officially named James E. (Jim) Scherr as the organization's Chief Executive Officer. Scherr has directed the USOC's day-to-day operations since March 2003, when he was asked to take on the added responsibilities of Chief Executive while continuing in his role of Chief of Sport Performance.     In announcing Scherr as Chief Executive Officer, USOC Board of Directors Chair Peter Ueberroth praised his leadership in reorganizing the U.S. Olympic Committee staff to better serve America's athletes. "The United States Olympic Committee has a responsibility to mirror the same level of excellence we see in our Olympic and Paralympic athletes. Jim has worked diligently to ensure that USOC resources are being used efficiently and effectively."    "I am honored by the confidence expressed today by the USOC Board members," Scherr said, "and I look forward to continuing to serve the United States Olympic Committee. The importance of the Olympic Movement continues to grow in our country and I know that the USOC staff is dedicated to providing unparalleled service and support to America's athletes and National Governing Bodies. I am extremely proud to lead them in these responsibilities."     As Chief of Sport Performance, Scherr directed the many programs and services offered by the USOC in support of the National Governing Bodies and America's athletes. He joined the USOC staff as Senior Managing Director for Sport Resources in November 2000 following his highly successful tenure as Executive Director of USA Wrestling (1990-2000).    Under Scherr's leadership, USA Wrestling's membership increased to more than 135,000 athletes, coaches, officials and clubs. The landmark USA Wrestling National Team Program contributed to impressive athletic success, including the 1993 and 1995 Freestyle World titles. The U.S. won eight medals at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, the most of any nation.    Scherr has a vast background in sport as both an athlete and administrator. He was elected Treasurer of USA Wrestling in 1990 and served as a member of the Finance Committee of the Board of Directors. He was a member of the USOC Executive Committee and Board of Directors, and served on the Audit Committee and NGB Council. He is a former member of the USOC Athletes' Advisory Council, the International Games Prep Committee and the U.S. Olympic Foundation. On a local level, Scherr is a former President of the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation.    A 1988 Olympian in freestyle wrestling, Scherr won two silver medals and a bronze in World Championship competition, in addition to his fifth-place finish at the Olympic Games in Seoul, Korea. He took silver in the 1987 and 1989 World Championships and was a bronze medalist in 1986. He is also a three-time U.S. National Champion and a two-time World Cup champion. He was named USA Wrestling Man of the Year in 1994 and received the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Order of Merit in 1997.     Originally from Mobridge, S.D., Scherr attended the University of Nebraska, where he won the 1984 NCAA Division I wrestling title at 177 pounds. He also earned an MBA degree from Northwestern University's Kellogg Graduate School of Management, one of the most prestigious programs in America.