The star player hoping to turn millions of TikTok followers into rugby fans

Ilona Maher, a talented rugby player, has recently made headlines not just for her skills on the field but also for her significant presence on social media. With a remarkable following on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, Ilona has become a voice for body positivity, encouraging her fans to embrace their bodies regardless of societal standards. At 28 years old and originally from the United States, Ilona signed a three-month contract with the Bristol Bears, a prominent rugby team in the UK. Her debut match attracted a record crowd, showcasing the growing interest in women's rugby. Although she only played for 20 minutes, her impact was felt throughout the stadium, and she took the time to engage with fans afterward, posing for photos and sharing her journey. Ilona expressed her pride in being a role model for young women, emphasizing the importance of self-love and kindness towards oneself. She advised girls to be gentle with their bodies and to engage in activities that highlight their strengths, whether it be dancing, playing rugby, or simply going for a walk. Young fans Zara and Millie, who attended the game, shared how Ilona's presence inspired them. They realized that participating in sports does not dictate their identity or how they should look. Zara noted, 'Ilona's changed the perception of body image by showing that you can be muscly and strong and powerful and wear a dress. ' This statement reflects a shift in how young girls view strength and femininity. Millie, who also plays rugby, mentioned that Ilona is a role model for her because of her height and confidence. Ilona's rise to fame began during her time with Team USA at the Paris Olympics, where she became one of the most followed athletes globally. Zara and Millie, both 16, play for North Bristol Rugby Club and had to relocate to Bristol to continue their rugby journey due to a lack of local girls' teams. They have been passionate about the sport since childhood, and Ilona's influence is helping to change the narrative around women in sports. Rugby journalist Jessica Hayden highlighted the significance of Ilona's message in breaking down barriers for women in sports. She pointed out that many girls do not have the opportunity to play due to a lack of teams, and even when they do, they often face challenges related to body image. Jessica emphasized that Ilona's authenticity resonates with fans, as people are eager to connect with athletes on a personal level. After the match, it was heartwarming to see young girls approach Ilona to share how she has positively influenced their self-image. Ilona's recent appearance on the popular show Dancing With the Stars further amplified her message of body positivity, showcasing her versatility as an athlete and entertainer. The excitement surrounding Ilona's debut with the Bristol Bears is palpable, as a record-breaking crowd of 9,240 fans attended the game against Gloucester-Hartpury. This attendance more than doubled the previous record for the Bears and set a new standard for women's rugby matches. Zara remarked, 'She's had a massive effect. They might not play rugby, they might not ever have watched a rugby match, but because they follow her on Instagram and TikTok, they want to come and watch her. ' Jessica, who was also in attendance, noted the unprecedented turnout and the potential for these new fans to become loyal supporters of the Bristol Bears. Ilona's three-month contract with the team presents a unique opportunity to elevate women's rugby, and Millie believes it could create a more substantial platform for the sport. With the Women's Rugby World Cup taking place in England this year, Jessica is optimistic about the future of women's rugby. She likened the current moment to the success of England's women's football team, the Lionesses, and expressed hope that Ilona's popularity will lead to increased investment in women's rugby. After her debut, Ilona expressed her eagerness to continue growing in her career, stating, 'I feel happy, but hungry's the word - I'm ready to do more. ' This determination reflects her commitment to not only her sport but also to inspiring the next generation of female athletes.