GOAL-GETTER: Record-Breaking Forward Sofia Miller Inks NIL Deal with Black Bear Collective
ORONO, ME — January 21, 2026 — The Black Bear NIL Collective is proud to announce the official signing of freshman forward Sofia Miller to its growing roster of student-athlete partners. A prolific scorer and a proven winner, Miller joins the collective at a pivotal moment for the University of Maine Field Hockey program as it continues to cement its status as a regional powerhouse.
Miller arrives in Orono following a historic high school career at Keene High School in New Hampshire, where she redefined the record books. A dynamic offensive threat, Miller was the first athlete in her school’s history to surpass the 100-career-point milestone, finishing with a staggering 37 goals and 27 assists. Her “Maine-tough” grit was on full display during her senior season, where she served as captain and led her team to an undefeated season and the first Division I State Championship in school history.
Now a freshman at UMaine, the Keene native is already bringing that championship pedigree to the turf. Known for her vision and playmaking ability—holding her high school’s all-time assist record—Miller represents the next generation of Black Bear excellence. Her transition from a New Hampshire state champion to a Division I playmaker embodies the spirit of the Black Bear NIL Collective: rewarding those who have the drive to lead and the talent to execute.
Jackson Leonard, operator of the Black Bear NIL Collective, sees Miller as a perfect fit for the organization’s vision.
“Sofia Miller is the definition of a high-impact competitor. To do what she did in high school—breaking records and carrying her team to a historic title—shows a level of maturity and ‘Maine-tough’ resolve that we look for in every athlete we support,” said Jackson Leonard. “Our mission is to empower athletes who elevate this community, and Sofia has been a winner since the moment she stepped on a field. We are thrilled to help her build her brand here in Orono and ensure she has the resources to thrive while she chases championships for Black Bear Nation.”
About the Black Bear NIL Collective
The Black Bear NIL Collective is the primary NIL entity dedicated to supporting University of Maine student-athletes. By facilitating opportunities for athletes to leverage their Name, Image, and Likeness, the Collective aims to keep UMaine competitive in the evolving landscape of collegiate sports while fostering deep roots within the Orono and greater Maine communities.
To learn more or to support our student-athletes, visit blackbearnilcollective.org.