yes, sponsorship is advertising for most companies. the more exposure you (the athlete) can provide for the sponsors the better. but, beyond the endorsement, many clubs include other promotional events in their sponsorship package. for example, at a certain level, we will provide the sponsor with team members to do a ride or event at the sponsor's company. we also spend time promoting certain sponsors at large events (like Sea Otter or InterBike) by making promotional appearances @ their booth.