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DENVER (AP) The U.S. Olympic Committee has selected a search firm to identify candidates to replace acting CEO Stephanie Streeter.

The USOC hired executive search firm Spencer Stuart on Thursday, hoping the firm will team with the USOC's search committee to hire Streeter's replacement by the end of the year.

Earlier this month, Streeter announced she would not be a candidate for the job on a permanent basis, but was committed to staying in the position through the Vancouver Olympics. The USOC board later decided it wanted a new CEO in place by the end of the year.

The USOC also announced names of its nine-person search committee, which will be headed by chairman Larry Probst and board members Bob Bowlsby and Mike Plant.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 10-29-09 1401CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list