Ilona Maher Pushes for Change in Rugby and Women’s Sports Representation

The Olympic medalist and rugby star advocates for inclusivity, fan engagement, and a collective spotlight for athletes to grow the sport.

Ilona Maher made her debut for the Bristol Bears in the Premiership Women’s Rugby league, drawing an unprecedented crowd of 9,240 after the venue was upgraded to accommodate fans.
Despite a 40-17 loss to Gloucester-Hartpury, Maher emphasized the importance of learning from setbacks and adapting to rugby 15s after years in rugby sevens.
Maher advocates for a shift away from rugby’s traditional 'boys club' culture, urging more women to become fans and active supporters of the sport.
She highlights the need for multiple stars in women’s rugby, arguing that building connections with fans through diverse role models will grow the sport’s popularity.
Known for her social media presence and advocacy, Maher continues to inspire with messages of body positivity, mental health awareness, and inclusivity in sports.