Social Media Star Ilona Maher Says Rugby Union Must Do More To Grow Game

113 Days(s) Ago    👁 32
social media star ilona maher says rugby union must do more to grow game

Social media sensation Ilona Maher has said rugby union needs to undergo a culture shift if the sport is to attract new fans.

Maher, who won rugby sevens bronze with the USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics , has more than eight million followers across Instagram and TikTok, making her the world's most followed rugby player.

She was also a runner-up in the most recent series of US television show 'Dancing With The Stars'.

Maher, 28, has signed a three-month contract with English women's Premiership side Bristol, in the hope of being a member of the US squad for the women's Rugby World Cup in England later this year.

The versatile back has already made her presence felt, helping draw a Bristol record crowd for a women's game when she made her debut against Gloucester-Hartpury at Ashton Gate.