Breaking the barriers
Big news in the women’s rugby world – international social media sensation and rugby powerhouse Ilona Maher has stepped up her career and has signed for the Bristol Bears, who currently sit mid-table of the premiership here in the United Kingdom. She has signed a three-month contract, which will help develop her career, but it’s also a huge moment for women’s rugby, with the 2025 Rugby World Cup on the horizon.
At just 28 years old, Maher has shown the world what she is capable of, representing the USA at the Tokyo and Paris Olympics with the rugby sevens team, winning bronze at this past Olympics. She is one of the most versatile and physical rugby players we have seen, and her adaptability between rugby sevens and XVs highlights her ability.
However, Maher has not played XVs since her college days, the move being just as much for her personal growth as it is for the Bears. In a recent interview, Maher said: “I’m excited to push myself in new ways and grow as a player.”
It is safe to say, Maher is the most influential women’s rugby player we have ever seen, proven by the Bristol Bears selling out their 2,000-capacity stadium, Shaftesbury Park, and having to switch to Ashton Gate with a 27,000-capacity due to ‘unprecedented demand’ for tickets for their West-Country derby clash against Gloucester-Hartpury, with fans up with the chance of seeing Ilona Maher make her debut in the Premiership.
Social Media Queen
Off the field, Maher is an international sensation, with 4.6 million followers on Instagram, and 3.3 million followers on TikTok. She has become the most followed rugby player in history, using her humour and authenticity to attract fans all around the globe. Regardless of numbers, her social media impact has been cultural. A role model for young athletes, embracing their true self whilst succeeding within their sport.
Outside of social media, she has opened doors within traditional media settings, featuring in the famous Forbes magazine, and being a cover star for a recent copy of Sports Illustrated.
Dancing and dominating
Those of you watch American TV will have heard of the show Dancing with the Stars, and if you have not it is basically their version of Strictly Come Dancing. Maher took to the stage in the past season with partner Alan Berston, where they placed second.
Speculating fans suggested that maybe the show was a distraction, but Maher saw it as a way to elevate women’s rugby. She said: “The more people know who I am, the more they’ll want to watch rugby.”
Empowering the future
Maher’s message is simple: “Don’t let anyone box you in. You can be strong, you can be funny, and you can be successful in ways people haven’t even thought of yet.” Her story is a blueprint for future athletes, a story of success.
What’s next?
We don’t know what lies next for Maher, whether that’d be an extended contract in the PWR, a stint in the Women’s Rugby World Cup, another TV show. But, what we do know is that she’s not only an incredibly talented rugby player, but also a true trailblazer who continues to inspire those around her with her dedication and passion for the sport.