Ilona Maher, one of rugby’s most recognizable faces and a social media sensation, is making a bold move in her career. The United States sevens superstar has signed a three-month deal with the Bristol Bears, marking her transition to 15-a-side rugby as she sets her sights on earning a spot in the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup in England.
The deal, which begins in January, is a major boost for the Bristol Bears and the Premier 15s league. The Rugby Football Union played a pivotal role in facilitating Maher’s visa, underlining her significance as a high-profile addition to the English league.
Ilona Maher’s arrival at Bristol is nothing short of a blockbuster signing. Known for her dynamic presence both on and off the field, Maher became a breakout star during the rugby sevens competition at the Paris 2024 Olympics. With over eight million followers on social media, she has transcended the sport, even finishing as the runner-up on Dancing With The Stars.
Bristol Bears head coach Dave Ward was full of praise for the 26-year-old’s potential impact: “This is a huge coup to be able to bring Ilona Maher to Bristol Bears on a short-term deal. She is one of the biggest names in women’s sport, let alone rugby, and we believe she will add real value to our programme on and off the field.”
Ward highlighted Maher’s exceptional ball-handling skills and her ability to add a new dimension to Bristol’s attack. Her experience in sevens rugby, combined with her aspirations for the XVs format, makes her a key addition to a Bristol squad already packed with talent, including England internationals Hannah Botterman, Sarah Bern, and Holly Aitchison.
Maher’s move to Bristol is fueled by her ambition to represent the United States in next year’s Rugby World Cup. Though primarily known for her sevens career, Maher has some experience in XVs, having been capped twice by the US national team in 2021.
She expressed her excitement about joining the Bears, saying: “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’s signing aligns perfectly with Bristol’s mission to grow the women’s game and inspire the next generation. Her profile as an athlete and her commitment to elevating the sport make her a natural fit for the Bears’ program.
Bristol currently sits fourth in the Premier 15s table, boasting five wins from seven matches. With Maher joining an already strong squad, the Bears are well-positioned to make a push for the title this season.
Ilona Maher’s move to Bristol Bears is a win for both the player and the club. For Maher, it’s an opportunity to hone her skills in XVs rugby and pursue her World Cup dream. For Bristol, it’s a chance to add a global star to their ranks and elevate the visibility of women’s rugby.
As Maher prepares to don the Bears jersey, fans and teammates alike will be eagerly awaiting her contributions on and off the field. This is more than a signing—it’s a statement about the growing power and potential of women’s rugby.