US rugby sensation and former USA Rugby Seven Stars Ilona Maher is a powerhouse in women’s rugby. From being a rugby player to advocating for women’s rugby and celebrating the sport, she has always brought her passion and dedication. The 28-year-old is now heartbroken as her current team, the Bristol Bears, lost the match.

Maher was a magnificent player on her former team but switched to England’s Bristol Bears and signed a contract in December 2024. Will she be in the Bears for her whole career? No, she has signed a contract for just three months, and it has to start in January 2025 with the Premiership Women’s Rugby League. But things turned out in other ways. How, you may ask?

Ilona Maher got injured and broke her nose during her debut in the starting lineup with the Bristol Bears on January 18. How did that happen? She collided with three defenders at Ashton Gate pitch and had to leave the game early. Her being her, she later said “Just a little knock.” Now, she is upset; you may ask why.

Ilona Maher took to her Instagram and shared a story of the Bristol Bears’ official handle. The text on the story reads, “Tough result and heartbroken for the team, but that game today was f****ng exciting, and you all need to start watching. Women’s rugby is on another level.” The Bristol Bears lost a match against Trailfinders women. The score?

Trailfinders was already playing with an edge; at halftime, the score was 27-21 (Trailfinders-Bears). And by full-time, the Bears lost with a 39-38 score. The Bears’ performance was top-notch considering they managed to balance the difference of 6 points and finally lost with only 1 point. But the season is just going to get hotter. And the Bears can look forward to their revenge soon.

Ilona Maher always supports women and women’s rugby

But while the Bears are recovering and gathering their strength, Maher is doing the same. In her upcoming clash against the Falcons on January 26th, the American will be out for the win. With Ampthill and Bedford on the coming roster, things will be bright. But just winning is not Maher’s only concern. No, for the young DWTS runner-up, each second spent on the field is for breaking gender barriers. And to make rugby more open for women.

Ilona Maher has always been a strong advocate for women in rugby, using her platform to support and empower the community. Her latest posts are proof of the same, which shows her determination to uplift women. In her recent post on Instagram, she was seen cheering up the cheerleaders and added the caption. It reads, “Doesn’t matter what they are doing; I will be cheering for them.” Maher has also never shied away from speaking against trolls.

Maher’s strong notes have been a reminder that females in rugby are equally as worthy of the same respect and credit as males are gifted. Maher posted a video on her social media with English rugby union players Ben Ryder Youngs and Dan Cole. It was a great gesture by both the male players who have supported Maher and advocated women’s rugby to the core.

Though Maher has faced criticism due to her physique, she has been body-shamed many times. But her dedication and bold attitude never let the criticism in between. Hopefully, she will get well soon and play for the Bristol Bears in upcoming matches.