NIL collective launched for student-athletes at Spalding University

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A collective has been launched to support student-athletes at Spalding University.

Eagles Nest Collective is a Name, Image & Likeness (NIL) collective launched to provide resources, mentorship and monetization opportunities for student athletes. The collective was founded by Jake Wardrip, a Louisville-based real estate leader and former student-athlete at the Louisville university. Wardrip played college baseball at Spalding.

"Starting a collective with Spalding University has always been the ultimate goal since I began partnering with athletes in March of 2022," Wardrip said in a news release. "I'm thrilled to collaborate with local partners in my network to create opportunities and experiences for these athletes that they might not otherwise have access to. This is also a deeply personal journey for me, as it gives me the chance to give back my time and efforts to the university that has played such a significant role in my life."

The Eagles Nest partnered with Opendorse, a leading NIL platform, as its operations partner.

"NIL collectives are rare in Division III and this is a great opportunity for our student-athletes to grow through experiential learning while navigating NIL with trusted partners," Spalding University Athletic Director Brian Clinard said in a news release. "We're very appreciative of the Eagles Nest and our partners at Opendorse for their service to Spalding's student athletes."

To learn more about the collective, click here.

Spalding University has more than 1,700 students enrolled. To learn more about Spalding University, click here.

Related Stories: