Ilona Maher recently emerged as the runner-up of Dancing with the Stars Season 33 alongside Allan Bersten. After successful stints with dancing, she has finally returned to her roots, which is her rugby game. Maher is now part of a new rugby team.
Here is everything you need to know about Maher’s fresh journey with the team.
Ilona Maher returns to rugby after DWTS
On Monday, December 2, 2024, DWTS runner-up Ilona Maher shared an exciting piece of news with her fans on her Instagram. The 28-year-old revealed that she’s set to return to rugby and has signed for Bristol Bears.
The Summer Olympics bronze medalist dropped a video where she was sported in the blue and white jersey of the team. Maher stated, ”I’m so excited to join the Bristol Bears and play premiership women’s rugby with and against some of the best rugby players in the world.” She further added, “I’m looking forward to calling Bristol home as we gear up for rugby World Cup 2025 played here in England.”
As fans are aware, Maher has always been passionate about her rugby career. In a recent interview with The Guardian, she revealed that this collaboration has been in the works since DWTS. Maher said she communicated with numerous popular ruby clubs in England in late 2023. However, her hard work paid off while participating in the reality show. The Bristols gave her a call and helped her with a visa to play for the team.
Maher also shared that all of a sudden she was bombarded with numerous calls and emails regarding work offers. Despite offers from many teams, she chose to stay with the Bristol Bears. As per The Guardian, Maher might play her first game on January 4, 2025.
