Maher, who boasts an impressive following of nearly 8 million across Instagram and TikTok, has joined the Bristol Bears women’s team and is set to be formally presented to the fans this Saturday.
The 28-year-old athlete, who played a crucial role in securing the bronze medal for the U.S. in rugby sevens at the recent Paris Olympics, has signed a three-month contract with Bristol, which will commence in January.
Her joining the club seems to have already made an impact, as ticket sales have surged. The Bears announced that due to “unprecedented demand,” Maher’s debut match against Gloucester-Hartpury on January 5 will be relocated from a smaller venue to Ashton Gate, typically reserved for high-profile fixtures. More than 1,000 tickets have already been sold.
This Saturday, the Bears will take on the Exeter Chiefs in a Premiership Women’s Rugby match. Prior to the game, Maher will engage in a Q&A session, branded as “a rare opportunity to hear from one of the biggest names in rugby.” Additionally, she will present the match ball before the kickoff, which will also take place at Ashton Gate.
Having previously been a runner-up on the popular show “Dancing With The Stars,” Maher expressed her aspiration that this transition could enhance her prospects of making the U.S. team for the 2025 Rugby World Cup scheduled in England.
“I am thrilled to join the Bristol Bears and look forward to positioning myself for a chance to represent the USA in the 2025 Rugby World Cup with such a talented and motivated group at the Bears,” the Vermont native remarked during the team’s announcement.
Primarily a back who can operate as both a center and wing, Maher is transitioning from the sevens format to the traditional 15-a-side game.
“Ilona is definitely one of the standout stars in the sevens arena, and we eagerly anticipate seeing her compete in XVs for the Bears,” said Dave Ward, the Bears’ head coach. “Her skill with the ball will provide our offense with a new dynamic, and her ambition to excel in the Rugby World Cup next summer is a powerful motivation for her to achieve extraordinary results at the Bears.”
Ward described Maher’s signing as “a significant coup.”
“She is among the most prominent figures in women’s athletics, not just in rugby, and we are confident she will bring considerable value to our program both on and off the field,” he stated.