Black Bear NIL Collective Makes a Splash: Freshman Diving Sensation Rachael Silva Joins the Ranks

ORONO, ME — March 5, 2026 — The Black Bear NIL Collective is proud to announce its latest partnership with University of Maine freshman diver Rachael Silva. This signing marks a significant expansion of the collective’s support for Olympic sports, reinforcing our commitment to empowering student-athletes who represent the grit and excellence of the Black Bear spirit both on the boards and in the classroom.

Rachael Silva, a native of Fall River, Massachusetts, arrives in Orono as one of the most decorated diving recruits in recent program history. A standout product of BMC Durfee High School and the South Shore Diving Club, Silva was the 2023 Massachusetts Division 1 State Champion and the 2025 MIAA South Sectional Champion. Her high school career was defined by dominance, including being named a five-time Conference Champion and a three-time Fall River Herald News Athlete of the Year.

Since joining the Black Bears, Silva has already proven to be a dynamic aerial threat in the America East. Earlier this season, she swept both the 1-meter and 3-meter events in the “Border Battle” against New Hampshire and recently secured a top-six finish on the 1-meter board at the 2026 America East Championships. Her technical precision and “Maine-tough” competitive edge have quickly established her as a foundational piece of the UMaine Swimming and Diving program’s future.

“Rachael is the definition of a high-impact student-athlete who embodies the vision we have for the Black Bear NIL Collective,” said Jackson Leonard, operator of the collective. “She’s a champion who chose to bring her elite talent to Orono, and we are here to ensure she has the community backing to match her ambition. Seeing a freshman step up and dominate the boards the way she has shows that the future of Maine sports is in great hands. We’re thrilled to support her journey as she continues to elevate this program to new heights.”

About the Black Bear NIL Collective

The Black Bear NIL Collective is the premier Name, Image, and Likeness entity dedicated to supporting University of Maine student-athletes. By connecting fans, local businesses, and alumni with our players, the collective creates opportunities for athletes to build their brands while strengthening the bond between UMaine athletics and the state of Maine. Our mission is to provide the resources necessary for our student-athletes to thrive in the modern era of college sports.

For more information or to support our athletes, visit blackbearnilcollective.org.