Ilona Maher has emerged as a powerful figure in women’s rugby, known for her combination of athletic skill and relatable social media presence. Whether excelling on the rugby field or sharing her candid thoughts on body image, she has become a standout athlete and advocate. Her ability to engage with fans has helped grow her platform and made her a role model for many.
Early Life
Born in Burlington, Vermont, Ilona Maher was always involved in sports. She excelled in field hockey, basketball, and swimming before discovering rugby at 17. Following in her father’s footsteps—who played rugby at St. Michael’s College—Maher quickly developed a passion for the sport.
While attending Quinnipiac University, she played at the collegiate level, establishing herself as a dominant force on the rugby field. In 2017, she was awarded the prestigious MA Sorensen Award for National Player of the Year, solidifying her as a rising star in US rugby.
Rugby Career
Maher’s career skyrocketed after joining the USA Women’s Rugby Sevens team. Her strength, agility, and leadership skills made her a standout player. Maher’s presence on the field is marked by her ability to break through defensive lines and create scoring opportunities, making her a crucial part of the team’s success.
Maher’s impact on US rugby means she has represented her country at various international competitions. Ilona Maher’s Olympic journey kicked off at the 2020 Tokyo Games, where she impressed on the global stage, despite the US team missing out on a medal.
At the Paris 2024 Olympics, she helped lead the US team to their first-ever Olympic medal in rugby, securing bronze. Her standout performances in both tournaments have cemented her place as one of the top rugby players in the world.
Follow Maya’s team in the latest round of Autumn Internationals here.
Life Off-Pitch
Ilona Maher’s social media popularity skyrocketed during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where her witty and humorous TikTok videos offered fans a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Olympic life. Her playful reviews, including the famous cardboard beds and interactions with fellow athletes, captured millions of viewers.
Today, with over two million followers on TikTok and over four million on Instagram, Maher uses her platform to promote body positivity and self-acceptance. She regularly addresses body-shaming, using her own experiences to confront outdated beauty standards and encourage women to embrace their bodies.
In 2024, Maher became the first rugby player to compete on Dancing with the Stars. Her journey on the show has inspired many, as she continues to use her platform to advocate for body positivity, individuality, and female athletes.
