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Ilona Maher has joined the Bristol Bears, making a bold switch in her rugby career with big aspirations ahead.
American rugby star Ilona Maher has taken the rugby world by storm with a major career move, signing with the Bristol Bears for the upcoming season.
The Olympic bronze medalist and social media sensation has made the switch from rugby sevens to 15s, joining the prestigious Premiership Women’s Rugby league.
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Maher, who boasts a combined following of nearly 8 million on TikTok and Instagram, announced her move in a lighthearted video filmed at Ashton Gate, the home of the Bears.
"I'm so excited to join the Bristol Bears and play with and against some of the best rugby players in the world," Maher said after her arrival.
"Just a question… is it going to be this cold the whole time? It's a little chilly."
The 26-year-old has quickly become a household name both on and off the pitch.
With a rugby résumé that includes a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics and three tries during the Tokyo Games, Maher has already cemented herself as one of the most accomplished players in U.S. rugby history.
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Her infectious personality and engaging online presence catapulted her into the public eye, making her the most-followed rugby player in the world.
Despite her global stardom, Maher admitted that moving to England has brought its challenges.
“I do feel like the first day of school,” she confessed.
“I am nervous, I don’t know everybody. It is a stressful thing and it is outside of my comfort zone, but I think this is exactly what I love to do, and I like to challenge myself in this way."
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The switch to 15s is a strategic move for Maher, as the format aligns with her aspirations to represent Team USA at the 2025 Rugby World Cup in England.
The USA has already qualified for the tournament and will face England, Australia, and Samoa in the pool stage.
Maher believes her stint in Bristol will provide the perfect opportunity to hone her skills and improve her chances of selection.
"I want to put myself in the best position to hopefully be selected for the World Cup," Maher explained.
"I have been in the USA 7s for six years now. So I wanted to try something different, go and live somewhere else, meet new people."
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Maher’s arrival is a coup for the Bristol Bears, who have landed one of the biggest names in women’s sport.
Her ability to play multiple positions, including center and prop in sevens, adds versatility to the squad.
Additionally, her magnetic personality and massive online following promise to draw new fans to the team and the league.
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Beyond her on-field talent, Maher has consistently showcased her star power through appearances like her runner-up finish on Dancing with the Stars.
Partnering with Alan Bersten, she made history as the first rugby player on the show and stunned audiences by lifting her male partner in a dazzling routine.
Though Maher’s journey in 15s is just beginning she remains undaunted.
“I wanted to try something new and challenge myself,” she reiterated.
Bristol fans can expect Maher to bring not only skill and determination but also her signature humor ensuring her impact will be felt far beyond the try line.
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