Ilona Maher is taking her talents across the pond, signing with the Bristol Bears rugby club as she transitions from rugby sevens to the union format. Fresh off her remarkable second-place finish on Dancing with the Stars, the Burlington, Vermont native announced her three-month contract with the club, starting January 2025, aiming to solidify her place on the USA team for the 2025 Rugby World Cup.
“I am excited to join the Bristol Bears and put myself in the best position to earn a spot to represent USA in the 2025 Rugby World Cup alongside such a talented and driven group as the Bears,” Maher expressed, emphasizing her readiness to embrace the challenge of rugby union, where teams consist of 15 players, contrasting her extensive experience with the USA Eagles rugby sevens, which features only seven players per side.
Maher’s signing captures the increasing visibility of women’s rugby, complemented by her engaging presence on social media. True to her persona, she revealed this exciting news through a humorous video on Instagram. “I heard this was bear country,” she playfully remarked before querying the cameraman about the existence of actual bears at the club's stadium. Maher also added her curiosity for local cuisine by asking, “Can we get a roast after this? I keep hearing about it.”
The Bristol Bears are not unfamiliar with engaging personalities; as one of the premier rugby clubs based in Bristol, England, they play at the highest levels of rugby union. The club's history is steeped in tradition, and with Maher’s talent and charisma, they are expecting increased interest and excitement from fans and aspiring young athletes alike.
Maher’s unique position as both a professional athlete and representative of women’s sports has made her proactive approach to engagement on platforms like TikTok invaluable. Following the announcement of her signing—which saw over seven million views and 1.3 million likes—it’s clear her move is making waves. This highlights her standing as more than just an athlete; she embodies influence and relatability backed by her athletic prowess.
Being part of the Bristol Bears not only provides Maher with the necessary platform to prepare for the World Cup but also places her at the forefront of those advocating for women athletes. Her recent stint on Dancing with the Stars also enriched her profile, exposing her to different audiences and enhancing her fanbase. Rising to be celebrated equally outside sports proves as significant for Maher as the medals she aims to win.
With the rugby world increasingly focused on inclusivity and representation, Maher’s move is also about paving the way for future generations. She is not merely making headlines; she is actively changing the narrative surrounding women’s roles in sports. This transition to the Bristol Bears aligns perfectly with her ambitions, merging entertainment with athleticism.
Looking forward, Maher expresses her determination to maximize this opportunity. “I am excited to join the Bristol Bears and put myself in the best position to earn,” she reiterates her intent. The upcoming Rugby World Cup, set to take place in England, looms large on her horizon, fueling her drive for excellence. Maher is committed to advocating for women’s rugby and creating visibility for future female athletes, showcasing the incredible talent present within the sport.
Ilona Maher’s signing with the Bristol Bears marks not just another milestone in her career but also like evidence of how far women’s rugby has come. Her commitment to making her presence felt, both on and off the field, makes her not just a player to watch, but also someone who will undoubtedly leave her mark on the sport for years to come.
