MIAMI — With the college football season about to kick into high gear in the weeks again, Tire Group International (TGI) has forged a partnership with a university that its leaders know very well.
TGI has formed a partnership with the University of Miami, the South Florida school that has won five national football championships, involving its Cosmo tire brand.
TGI President Joaquin Gonzalez Jr. was a captain on the 2001 Hurricane football team that beat Nebraska, 37-14, to win the school's last national title. His brother and fellow U of M alumnus, Tony Gonzalez, is CEO of TGI.
"Aligning Cosmo Tires with the University of Miami is a natural fit," Joaquin Gonzalez said. "Cosmo Tires and the Hurricanes are both driven by a passion for excellence and a relentless pursuit of victory.
"This collaboration reflects our commitment to supporting both the team and the South Florida community."
The 6-foot-5, 310-pound Gonzalez, a consensus two-time All-American, started at offensive tackle for the Hurricanes. He holds the record for most consecutive starts (49) at Miami and was inducted into the Hurricanes' hall of fame in 2016.
After college, Gonzalez was drafted and played for the Cleveland Browns (2002-04). He finished his career in 2005 with the Indianapolis Colts.
The Hurricanes' football program has had two Heisman Trophy winners, 74 all-Americans, 13 College Football Hall of Famers, 62 first-round NFL draft picks and 11 Pro Football Hall of Famers.
TGI said Cosmo Tires will be featured prominently featured in various capacities, including Miami players using Cosmo Tires during training exercises. Cosmo signage will be displayed at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, and national radio advertisements highlighting the "MuchoMacho" Moment of The Game.
TGI said that Cosmo Tires also will interact with the Hurricanes' student-athletes via social media.
TGI recently announced that it had acquired Avaun Tire Supply, a wholesale distributor based in Portland, Ore.
TGI's Cosmo brand offers a portfolio of products including performance, passenger, off-road, light truck, van, trailer and truck tires.
