Success keeps splashing in Piper Enge’s direction.
The Mercer Island High School (MIHS) senior notched six individual 3A state titles during her three-year prep swimming career, has lit up the pool in national and international swim meets and will next compete at the U.S. Olympic Trials from June 15-23 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana.
The University of Texas – Austin commit can now add a NIL partnership with SPLASHForward to her résumé as an ambassador to the organization. It’s the initial NIL partnership for both Enge and the Eastside-based nonprofit 501-(c)(3) organization that is dedicated to building the first new comprehensive public aquatic facility in Bellevue in more than 50 years, according to a press release. NIL refers to the rights of student athletes to control and profit from their name, image and likeness.
Enge, who also swims on the Bellevue Club Swim Team, said in the press release that pools are places where people can swim, build community, learn dedication to personal goals and have lots of fun.
“I’m super excited to have partnered with SPLASHForward,” Enge told the Reporter. “I want to spread awareness of what this amazing project is doing for the future of aquatics. Having access to a pool is so important for water safety and opportunity for sports, which is why I’m thrilled to be a part of this project.”
Susan Pappalardo, president and co-founder of SPLASHForward, added in the press release that her organization is excited to partner with Enge and spread the message about the importance of community connection and dream building while swimming at aquatic facilities.
Pappalardo told the Reporter that they created a best-in-class NIL agreement and are in compliance with NCAA and UT-Austin’s guidelines. SPLASHForward’s investment in Enge and their NIL partnership reflects her value as a local hero and as one of the top national swimmers who has also competed on the world stage, Pappalardo added.
MIHS girls swim and dive head coach Chauntelle Johnson said that Enge is a powerful source of inspiration and influence that strengthens SPLASHForward’s efforts.
“Piper represents the best of the Pacific Northwest swimming community — both as an athlete and as a person. She feels strongly about giving back to the sport, paving the way for future generations of swimmers, and ensuring that everyone has access to aquatic opportunities,” Johnson added.
For more information about SPLASHForward, visit: www.splashforward.org