Ilona Maher

Ilona Maher is an American rugby union player and social media personality from Burlington, Vermont.

Ilona Maher is an American rugby union player and social media personality. She won a bronze medal with the U.S. women's rugby sevens team at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

What it is

Ilona Maher is a centre for the U.S. women's rugby sevens team and a prominent online figure. She played collegiate rugby at Quinnipiac University, earning All-American honours, and made her international debut in 2018. Maher competed at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics, helping the U.S. secure its first Olympic medal in women's rugby sevens with a bronze in Paris.

Why it matters

Maher has become one of the most recognizable rugby players globally through her social media presence and body positivity advocacy. Her visibility has boosted the profile of women's rugby, including in Canada, where she has faced Canadian teams in international competitions. Her bronze medal win also marked a milestone for American rugby.

Key details

Maher transitioned to rugby in college after playing other sports. She signed with Bristol Bears in England's Premiership Women's Rugby in December 2024. Off the field, she uses her platform to promote confidence and fitness, amassing millions of followers. Her Olympic bronze in Paris was a historic first for the U.S. women's rugby sevens program.