Nancy Schultz, president of the Dave Schultz Wrestling Foundation, announced that Kendall Cross, 1996 Olympic Champion, will accept the position of Executive Director of the Dave Schultz Wrestling Foundation (DSWF).    "This is an exciting time for wrestling and the Schultz Foundation, " said Schultz. "It is the great fortune of our organization to have Kendall Cross step into a leadership role. The Schultz Wrestling Foundation is the combined effort of many devoted athletes, coaches, sponsors and families.  Now Kendall brings his great understanding of the sport, ideal administrative skills, a network of important contacts and a reputation of goodwill and good sportsmanship."    "Kendall was a close friend of Dave's. I can think of no one better to honor his memory, help raise support and lead our current US athletes to success. Having Kendall return to wrestling full-time is a great opportunity, not just for the DSWF, but also for the sport of wrestling.  His expertise will be available to our national teams on a regular basis, he will be able to administer clinics, camps and developmental opportunities for young athletes.  Kendall Cross is a respected role model and a great ambassador for amateur wrestling," she said.    Brandon Slay, 2000 Olympic Champion and a Dave Schultz Wrestling Club athlete, says, "Kendall is a great fit for the DSWF executive director. As a big fan and friend, I know he has the passion to keep Dave's legend alive, as he helps grow the sport of wrestling across the US.  Kendall is well respected in the wrestling world and his influence and guidance will advance the DSWF mission.  Kids love Kendall, and the fact that he still loves to teach wrestling is a huge bonus for American youth and the Schultz Foundation."    Commenting on the Foundation's strategy, Kendall Cross said: "Our goals, current and long-term, are multifaceted.  Generally, I want to keep the spirit of Dave Schultz alive and let it serve others. Immediately, I will strengthen the DSWF's bottom line through major fund raising efforts."    "Obviously one of our ultimate goals is to put DSWF wrestlers on the Olympic mats.  I want to provide an ideal environment that is conducive for success!  I want these athletes to have everything they need for training and preparation so they too can see their flag go up in front of them.  It'll happen!," he said.    "Also, I will enhance our programs that introduce wrestling to youth who wouldn't otherwise have the opportunity. This initiative involves providing role models, such as our US athletes to young people. These contacts with America's best can motivate and create a blueprint for success.  Dave would appreciate these programs because he knew that wrestling teaches self-confidence, goal setting, commitment and discipline. As well, I will work to assure the Schultz International continues as one of the premier showcase events in the world."    Cross will be working closely with the DSWF board of directors. Reporting to Cross will be a support staff as well as the foundation's directors for coaching, communications, special events, merchandising and fundraising.  Kendall will be coordinating and expanding the affiliate site programs throughout the United States.  He will establish a DSWF office in the Boston area.    Cross, 35, was born in Hardin, Montana and raised in Mustang, Okla.  He graduated with a degree in Political Science and Economics. Kendall wrestled  at Oklahoma State University where he was an NCAA champion and a three-time All American. He was recently inducted as a Distinguished Member of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.    Kendall has been a financial consultant in Merrill Lynch's Private Client Group.  His wife, Rona, is an intellectual property attorney specializing in trademark law. She practices in a business law firm and manages the firm's client's trademark portfolios. Rona's firm, Ruberto, Israel & Weiner, P.C., provides pro bono legal advice to DSWF.  Kendall and Rona have a son, Kennedy Rand, 5, and a daughter, London Grace, 3.