United States sevens star Ilona Maher will join Bristol in January for the rest of the season with a view to next year’s World Cup.
Maher, the game’s most popular player on social media with more than eight million followers, including 4.6 million on Instagram, stood out in the Eagles’ bronze medal at the Summer Olympics.
The 28-year-old plays at center and wing and her arrival will boost Bristol’s bid for the Premiership Women’s Rugby title.
Maher celebrates after USA’s quarterfinal win over Great Britain at the Paris Olympics
“It’s a huge coup to be able to bring Ilona Maher to the Bristol Bears on a short-term deal,” head coach Dave Ward said.
“She is one of the biggest names in women’s sport, let alone rugby, and we believe she will add real value to our program on and off the field. Her ability with the ball in her hands will add a new dimension to our attack.”
Maher has spent the past three years with the U.S. sevens program, but is looking to restart his 15-year career with the 2025 World Cup next fall.
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