On December 2nd 2024, Bristol Bears announced the signing of 'One of the biggest names in women's sport, let alone rugby.' The world famous, two-time Olympian, rugby star and social media sensation, Ilona Maher, will be calling Bristol home for the next three months, as she makes the move to the UK, in a transfer that is sure to have a generational impact not only in the local area but also across the country.
Maher Mania!
Ilona Maher’s presence in the UK’s Premier 15s league represents more than just an exceptionally exciting signing for Bristol Bears. Her international recognition, particularly as a key player for the USA Rugby 7s team, makes her one of the most well-known figures in the women’s game today. With a substantial following of over 7 million across her social media platforms, and a reputation as a charismatic, confident athlete who prides herself on body positivity and being an inspiring role model, Maher is the type of player who transcends the sport. She has already proven herself to be a significant ambassador for women’s rugby through her advocacy for the sport, as well as her visibility in the public eye.
The American’s move to the top division in the UK will most likely bring new fans to the league and undoubtedly attract a much larger audience to the games. The league has steadily grown in popularity over the past few years, but having a player with Maher’s international stature can only help accelerate that growth. The excitement generated by her arrival drew attention not just from those interested in women’s rugby, but from general sports enthusiasts who may not have paid as much attention to the women’s Premier 15s league before. Following on from the announcement video of the star signing, which was seen by over 10 million viewers, her new club released a statement that their derby clash against Gloucester on January 5th -Ilona’s first potential game- will now be played at the larger venue of Ashton Gate due to “unprecedented demand,” showcasing the utter ‘Maher Mania’ caused by this move.
Bristol Bears Boost
Bristol Bears Women are already an established, top team in the Premier 15s, and the club currently sits in 5th position in the table, but with Maher’s arrival, the ambitions for greater success are heightened. The versatile back, who can play on the wing and at centre, will be determined to use all her expertise and leadership to help her new teammates in their pursuit of a strong finish in the league. Her defensive prowess, speed and attacking capabilities will complement an already talented Bristol squad, yet what Ilona Maher brings to the table goes beyond just her on-field abilities. As a high-profile player, she has experience of competing on the global stage, having represented the USA at the Olympics, World Cup Sevens and many international tournaments, thus her experience will undoubtedly prove invaluable to the club that has aspirations of winning a title.
For the club, the mega star also provides an opportunity to grow its fanbase beyond the city of Bristol. Fans of Ilona will be welcomed with open arms to a city which is already hugely passionate about rugby, with Ashton Gate being a perfect stadium to experience a true atmospheric matchday. When speaking about her ambitions with the club, Ilona stated ‘If I am what gets them in the door, awesome, but I hope that the rugby being played is what makes them stay,’. The chance to grow as a club has presented itself to Bristol and the supporters that will be attracted thanks to their new star will play a huge role in its future success, with the long-term aim of having regular sold-out games.
More than a Move
Maher’s move is significant in a large variety of ways, but perhaps the most important is the influence she will have in shifting perceptions of women’s rugby, and women’s sport in general, in the UK. With an increase in media attention, encouraging more televised games and international attention for the league, there is the possibility of more sponsorship opportunities and increased funding for women’s rugby at all levels, from the grassroots upwards. While the men’s game traditionally does dominate in the UK, the rise of the women’s game has been undeniable in recent years, with record breaking viewing numbers at the most recent Women’s six nations as ‘from January 1st to April 30th 2023, 20.6 million people watched’. With more athletes and international stars like Maher moving into the league, it reinforces the idea that the women’s game is just as professional, competitive and entertaining as the men’s game.
Ilona Maher’s positive impact will be felt across Bristol and the wider area, and her presence will hopefully encourage more young women to pick up the sport, creating a successful new generation of players who will look up to her not just due to her rugby ability, but for her confidence and positivity regarding social issues such as inclusivity and body positivity.
Be sure to get down to Ashton Gate to support the Bears and catch Ilona in action!
Featured image: Rogan Thomson / Bristol Bears
