Ilona Maher is a Team USA Rugby Sevens Bronze Medalist and two-time Olympian, representing the United States at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games. She is widely recognized for using social media to share her experiences as a professional athlete, promote body appreciation, and grow visibility for women’s rugby.
Originally from Burlington, Vermont, Maher earned her Bachelor of Nursing from Quinnipiac University, where she led the women’s rugby team to three national championships, and later completed her Master of Business Administration at Keller School of Management. Known for her confidence and authenticity on and off the field, she is committed to encouraging others to embrace strength, individuality, and self-belief.
Maher is an ambassador for ChildFund Rugby, an organization that combines rugby and life skills education to support young people in vulnerable communities. She has traveled internationally, including to Laos, in support of the organization’s mission.
Following the Paris Olympics, Maher appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, competed on Dancing With the Stars (Season 33, Runner-Up), and was recognized on the TIME100 Creators and TIME100 Next lists, Sports Illustrated’s 100 Most Influential Athletes, Forbes 30 Under 30, and as a USA Today Woman of the Year. She later signed with the Bristol Bears of Premiership Women’s Rugby, before rejoining Team USA Rugby ahead of the 2025 Rugby World Cup. Maher is also the co-host of the podcast House of Maher and is the subject of an upcoming docuseries.
