Ilona Maher is elevating women’s rugby, much like Mia Hamm did for women’s soccer, by drawing attention beyond the sport itself.
The upcoming Women’s World Cup in England provides a platform for the American star to captivate even more fans.
At 29, Maher has amassed over eight million social media followers, not just for her athletic achievements but also her advocacy for body positivity.
Key to the USA women’s team earning their first Olympic medal, Maher helped defeat Australia in the bronze match in Paris last year.
Her success led to appearances in Sports Illustrated’s swimsuit issue and on “Dancing with the Stars,” where she was the runner-up.
Her impact on the USA team attracted investor Michele Kang, who pledged $4 million over four years for the USA Women’s Rugby Sevens Team’s growth.
Kang also owns the Lyon women’s soccer team, European champions eight times over.
In Paris, Maher wasn’t just playing rugby; she was also engaging her audience with witty social media content.
She humorously likened life in the Athletes’ Village to a reality show, jokingly saying she was “looking for love,” only to be reminded she was there to play rugby.
Reflectively, she shared with Bleacher Report her mission to assure “girls” that sports don’t diminish their femininity.
“We aim to show that in sports, you can be powerful on the field and still be beautiful,” she said.
“It’s vital for me because I want girls to see their bodies’ potential.
“It’s not just for objectification but strong, fast, and brilliant,” she expressed.
Maher’s advocacy for body positivity has made her a brand ambassador for a deodorant and a skincare line she co-founded, embracing her global fame and “America’s sweetheart” image.
“I love the title because I may not fit the typical sweetheart image,” Maher told CNN in January.
“I’m honored.”
Originating from Vermont, Maher remains grounded, appreciating the trailblazing women athletes before her.
Mia Hamm, a fellow American and soccer legend, is among her inspirations.
“I recall a Mia Hamm poster in our gym, inspiring me,” Maher told Bleacher Report.
At home, she’s part of a close family, with her father Michael, a rugby enthusiast who introduced her to the sport, Dutch-born mother Mieneke, and sisters Olivia and Adrianna.
Her sister Olivia also enjoys a notable social media presence.
From her father, Ilona not only learned rugby but also a vital life lesson when he stood up for her at a softball event.
After a dad complained about her pitching, her father defended her fiercely.
“That taught me to never hold back,” she told CNN.
“Because that dad wanted me to ease up for his daughter.
“But the world doesn’t cater to you.”
Instead, Maher has raised the bar, benefiting women’s rugby significantly, as New Zealand legend Portia Woodman-Wickliffe shared with AFP.
“An American like her, confident, passionate about rugby, and vocal about supporting women’s bodies, is incredible for us,” Woodman-Wickliffe said.
“We need to capitalize on her influence.”
