RIVERSIDE, Calif. — UC Riverside has announced the hiring of Nathalie da Silva as the program's new Director of Golf. A decorated collegiate player and experienced coach, da Silva will oversee both the men's and women's golf programs for the Highlanders.

"I am thrilled to welcome Nathalie to UC Riverside," said Interim Director of Athletics Michelle Almazan. "She is an exceptional leader whose experience as both an accomplished player and coach will elevate our golf programs to new heights. Nathalie brings an infectious passion for the game, a deep commitment to student-athlete success, and a vision that aligns perfectly with the culture we're building at UCR. I have no doubt she will make an immediate and lasting impact on our student-athletes and our department as a whole."

Da Silva joins UC Riverside after serving as the head coach for both the men's and women's programs at the University of La Verne, a role she began in 2022. Prior to her tenure with the Leopards, she was an assistant coach at her alma mater, California Baptist University, while also working as a golf professional at Victoria Club in Riverside.

"I am beyond excited to join UCR as the director of golf, coaching both the men's and women's teams," said coach da Silva. "This opportunity allows me to blend my passion for the game with my commitment to student-athlete development. I look forward to fostering a team culture that emphasizes growth, teamwork, and competitive spirit as we aim for success on the course and in our academic pursuits. I can't wait to embrace UCR's mission and connect with the Riverside community. Go Highlanders!"

A 2019 inductee into the CBU Athletics Hall of Fame, da Silva enjoyed an exceptional collegiate career with the Lancers. She was a two-time NAIA All-American (2009, 2010), the 2010 NAIA Individual National Champion, and a member of CBU's 2011 NAIA National Championship team. She later earned All-PacWest honors in 2014 after placing fifth at the conference championships. Da Silva ranks among CBU's all-time top 10 in several statistical categories, including rounds played, scoring average, and par-or-better rounds.

On the international stage, da Silva represented Brazil from 2008 to 2014 in competitions across South America, Asia, and Europe, highlighted by her victory at the 2012 Brazilian Amateur Open.

A native of Brazil, da Silva earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in kinesiology from California Baptist University.