April 14, 2000 1:41 PM Reuters

BOSTON, April 14 (Reuters) - United States Olympic Committee official Terry Madden has stepped down from his post to become Chief Executive Officer of the new U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA).

USOC President Bill Hybl, for whom Madden has served as Chief of Staff since February 1999, made the announcement Friday morning during the USOC Executive Committee Meeting in Boston.

The USADA, which is scheduled to become operational after the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, was formed as an independent agency that will conduct drug testing, support anti-doping research and oversee the adjudication process on behalf of America's Olympic athletes and hopefuls, the USOC said in a release announcing Madden's appointment.

"The mission of USADA is to eradicate doping in Olympic, Paralympic and Pan American sport," said Madden, who served as Executive Director of USA Badminton from 1997-98.

The agency was established following a recommendation made by the U.S. Olympic Committee Select Task Force on Drug Externalization. Madden was Hybl's USOC staff liaison to the task force.

"Terry has served the United States Olympic Committee with distinction and honor, and I am proud that he will continue his important work on behalf of America's Olympic athletes and hopefuls in his new position as CEO of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency," said Hybl.

Former U.S. Olympian Frank Shorter was previously tabbed as Chairman of the anti-doping agency.

"Terry brings the exact skill set and information base needed to make USADA a success," Shorter said. "He knows the system inside-out, understands the nature of this problem and is determined to work to eliminate doping in sport."

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