In a move first reported by OnMilwaukee.com, the two-time defending champion Milwaukee Wave of the Major Indoor Soccer League formally named Sue Black president and CEO of the organization at Wednesday at U.S. Cellular Arena.

Wearing soccer-style tennis shoes and smiling, Black appeared happy and enthusiastic, waving a Milwaukee Wave towel over her head.

"I love giving back," said Black of her new position. "I'm excited to get people to know the players ... and to get more families to the games.

"I bring results. This is going to be a blast."

She said she is happy to be staying in Milwaukee for her new job. "I love Milwaukee."

"She's driven, hard-working, has a great track record and she's ready for a new challenge. It's perfect for her," said Keith Tozer, coach of the Milwaukee Wave, at the press conference.

She was described by Wave owner James Lindenberg as the perfect individual to lead the team.

"I was thinking about it for a while when I heard that she was available," Lindenberg said. "I hesitated for a little bit; thought she'd end up at a park and rec job. But as I got to know Sue and we had many meetings and talked about it, she really loved Milwaukee and wanted to stay in Milwaukee. As I got to know her, the Wave and the Wave of Hope were just perfect for what she wants to do and wants to accomplish and what she wants to continue in Milwaukee.

"It was a perfect fit."

Former Wave President Peter Wilt, who is the current president and general manager of Indy Pro Soccer, an expansion team in the North American Soccer League, hailed the hiring.

"This is a powerful hire," Wilt said. "Sue's relationships, persistence and creativity will all be great assets in this position. It won't be easy, but she's never shied away from a challenge."

Black, who was fired from her position as the Milwaukee County Parks Director in August, joins an organization that has won six MISL championships in 28 seasons of play.

Organizationally, Tozer remains as the primary force behind the Wave's personnel decisions. Black's role will be off the field, helping develop the team's public face and expanding its presence in the community.

"I anticipate Sue just working on the business side, corporate sponsorships, getting us out in the media," Lindenberg said.