Under Armour will sponsor South American Colo-Colo soccer club

Under Armour took a step toward gaining greater global recognition for its brand Thursday, announcing a sponsorship of South American soccer club Colo-Colo, part of Chile's Primera Division.

Baltimore-based Under Armour said the partnership is the first in which it will supply uniforms to a "top-tier" South American soccer club, winner of 29 national titles. The sports apparel maker will design and make uniforms and training apparel for the clubs teams, as well as products for fans, under the five-year-agreement.

The club "presents an amazing platform for our brand to reach new audiences in Chile, serve as the foundation of our growth in South America and propel our momentum in the game of football," Matt Mirchin, executive vice president of global brand and sports marketing for Under Armour, said in a statement.

Under Armour unveiled uniforms for the club that weigh only 3.8 ounces and feature the brand's quick drying and HeatGear technologies designed to keep athletes cool.

Lorraine.mirabella@baltsun.com