Ilona Maher Signs for Bristol Bears for PWR Season

Ilona Maher, the American Olympic bronze medallist, has joined Bristol Bears for the remainder of the Premiership Women’s Rugby (PWR) season. The 28-year-old, who is the most followed rugby player worldwide on social media with 4.5 million Instagram followers and 3.2 million TikTok followers will play for the Bears on a three-month deal starting in January. She will begin training with the team this week before returning to the United States for the holidays.

Bristol Bears head coach Dave Ward called Maher’s signing a “huge coup” for the club, highlighting her influence both on and off the field. Maher known for her outstanding performances in sevens rugby will bring a new dimension to the Bears’ attack with her skillful ball-handling. Ward also mentioned Maher’s desire to perform well in next year’s Rugby World Cup in England as a key motivator for her success with the Bears.

Maher returns to XVs for the first time since 2021 after focusing on sevens for the past three years. PWR chair Genevieve Shore praised Maher’s impact both as an athlete and as a role model for the next generation of rugby players. Maher expressed excitement about joining Bristol Bears and positioning herself for the 2025 Rugby World Cup in England.

Despite joining mid-season, Ilona Maher faces the challenge of fitting into a well-established Bears squad. With top performers like Jaz Joyce, Millie David, Phoebe Murray and Emma Orr already excelling, coach Ward will need to find the best position for Maher without disrupting the team’s chemistry. Maher has played on the wing in XVs but has also expressed interest in playing in the back row.