Uniroyal tire spokesperson Julie Foudy earned gold for herself and youth soccer leagues at the 2004 Olympiad in Athens, Greece.
As captain, she helped the United States women’s soccer team win the Olympic gold medal. She also raised $503,000 for soccer equipment as part of a sponsorship deal with Michelin North America Inc. and its Uniroyal soccer program (Aug. 11, 2004: "As Uniroyal spokesperson Foudy plays, so pays Michelin").
For every minute she played, Michelin agreed to donate $1,000 in soccer equipment to communities where the Uniroyal tire brand and its dealers are supporting youth soccer leagues around the country. Foudy played 503 minutes.
Michelin also had agreed to donate $100,000 for every goal Foudy scored in the Olympics.
"We are extremely proud of the U.S. Women’s Soccer Team,” said Tim Jamison, Uniroyal tire brand director. "They played their hearts out in the final match and we are thrilled to be associated with their team captain.
"Like millions of Americans, we cheered them on but cheered particularly loud for Julie -- because the more she played for the U.S. team, the more we contributed to youth soccer programs across America."
Foudy, who has been a spokesperson for Uniroyal tires for nearly five years, is retiring from the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team after 17 years. However, she will continue to serve as a leader in the sport of soccer through her participation in soccer clinics, camps and special appearances.
Through its Uniroyal soccer program, Michelin has raised more than $5 million in equipment donations and fundraising initiatives for youth soccer.
