AKRON (Nov. 7, 2013) — The U.S. Ski & Snowboarding Association (USSSA) has named Goodyear the "official tire" of the U.S. ski, snowboarding and freeskiing teams.
The partnership includes team athletes' traveling to their training destinations on top performing tires, Goodyear said, such as the Goodyear Ultra Grip winter tires and Goodyear Assurance tires.
"Like Goodyear, members of the U.S. Ski Team, U.S. Snowboarding and U.S. Freeskiing are 'More Driven,' continuously striving to be the best in their sport, making this relationship a natural fit for the Goodyear brand and its superior performing tires," said Gary Melliere, general manager of sponsorships at Goodyear North America.
The Akron-based tire manufacturer is looking forward to helping these athletes get the slopes, he added.
A Goodyear spokesman explained that the company is not equipping team vehicles or athletes with its tires—unless they choose to use Goodyear tires. As for the designation "official tire" of the teams, the spokesman said Goodyear will reference this in marketing/advertising materials and will be featured at some upcoming ski/snowboard events.
The tire maker did not divulge any financial value or contract details of the deal.
Michael Jaquet, USSA chief marketing officer, said, "winter driving and overcoming tough conditions is something our teams face every season, and performance is a must for athletic success.
"Goodyear's commitment to our programs and athletes is a huge step for us and will provide an opportunity to showcase its products through our USSA events and athletes."
The USSSA is the national governing body of Olympic skiing and snowboarding. It is the parent organization of the U.S. Ski Team, U.S. Snowboarding and U.S. Freeskiing.