STATEMENT: Ilona Maher confirms move to Women's Premiership

12/02/2024 04:22 PM

Bristol Bears have secured a major coup for 2025, with USA Eagles star Ilona Maher set to join the club on a three-month deal starting in January.

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From Bronze to Bears

At just 28, Maher is one of rugby's biggest names. The Olympic bronze medallist, who boasts over 7 million social media followers, has arrived in the West Country to meet her new teammates and begin training this week. She'll return home until the New Year, but her sights are firmly set on making a mark in 2025.

"This is a huge coup to be able to bring Ilona Maher to Bristol Bears on a short-term deal. She is one of the biggest names in women's sport, let alone rugby, and we believe she will add real value to our programme on and off the field." – Head Coach, Dave Ward

Maher's ambition is clear: to earn a spot in the USA squad for the 2025 World Cup in England, where two quarter-finals and both semi-finals will be held at Ashton Gate. A versatile back capable of playing both centre and wing, Maher first made her international debut at the 2018 Paris Sevens. She has since played at the Rugby World Cup Sevens 2018 in San Francisco and competed in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics in 2021.

A Two-Time Olympian

Maher's incredible journey continued with her selection for the Paris 2024 Olympics, three years after her debut. Known for her explosive speed and power, she was also invited to the Women's Eagles fifteens camp in 2021, making her official debut against Canada during the Pacific Four Series in Glendale, CO.

"Ilona is one of the standout stars in the sevens game and we can't wait to see her play for Bears in XVs. Her ability ball in hand will give our attack a new dimension and her desire to star in the Rugby World Cup in England next summer is a huge driving force for her to achieve great things at Bears." – Dave Ward

Her profile extends beyond her skills on the field; Maher's presence as a leading athlete is poised to inspire the next generation. The Bears are excited to welcome her not just for her rugby talents but for her role in promoting women's sport.

"I am excited to join the Bristol Bears and put myself in the best position to earn a spot to represent USA in the 2025 Rugby World Cup alongside such a talented and driven group as the Bears." – Ilona Maher

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Rugby’s Five Richest Couples:

5. Johnny and Laura Sexton – £6m

Together since their teens, Johnny Sexton and his wife Laura are one of rugby's wealthiest couples. Known for their close-knit family, with three children often seen pitchside, the Sextons met at Rathgar Tennis Club and tied the knot in 2013. From Dublin's Saint Mary's College to University College Dublin, Johnny and Laura have been through it all. Their story, filled with love and commitment, has captivated fans just as much as Johnny's rugby career.

4. Siya and Rachel Kolisi – £10m

With an empire worth an estimated £10 million, Siya and Rachel Kolisi were not just a power couple but partners in philanthropy. Known for their foundation and work in communities, the couple planned to keep collaborating on their projects, even as they transition to a new chapter. Siya recently rejoined the Sharks in South Africa after a stint with French side Racing, but despite their split, Rachel remains the “rock” Siya has always called her.

Though the Kolisis' marriage may be over, their legacy as one of South Africa's most-loved couples will continue to inspire fans across the globe.

3. Mike and Zara Tindall – £20m

Mike Tindall is known not just for his rugby prowess but for his royal connections. As the husband of Zara Phillips, the granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II, Tindall has become a prominent figure in British media.

Nicknamed "The Fridge" due to his imposing physique, Tindall was a stalwart on the rugby field, famously breaking his nose at least eight times over the course of his career. Since retiring from the sport, he's made a name for himself in the entertainment world, appearing on popular reality shows such as I'm a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here, Bear Grylls: Mission Survive, The Jump, Shark Cage, Celebrity Poker Club, and All-Star Poker Challenge.

Despite his success in sports and entertainment, Tindall's wealth has been largely bolstered by his royal ties, with his net worth estimated at £20 million, according to British media.

2. Jonny and Shelley Wilkinson – £22m

Jonny Wilkinson is a legendary figure in English rugby, with a career spanning 12 seasons at Newcastle Falcons before his move to French club Toulon in 2009. Wilkinson cemented his place in history by leading England to victory in the 2003 Rugby World Cup, becoming a national hero in the process.

In his personal life, Wilkinson has kept a lower profile. He married his long-time girlfriend, Shelley Jenkins, in a private ceremony on the French Riviera in October 2013. The couple now has a son, reportedly named James, and maintain a relatively private family life. Wilkinson’s net worth stands at £22 million, making him one of rugby’s wealthiest figures.

1. Sonny Bill and Alana Williams – £20m

Sonny Bill Williams is a sporting icon from New Zealand, famed not only for his rugby achievements but also for his ventures into boxing. Known for his versatility, Williams has excelled in both rugby union and rugby league, playing as a centre and second-rower, respectively. Additionally, his brief yet successful stint in professional boxing saw him win nine out of 10 heavyweight bouts.

In 2013, Williams married Alana Raffie after a whirlwind four-week romance, following Islamic traditions despite admitting that they were not in love at the time. Their union has since become one of the most talked-about in sports. With a combination of earnings from rugby, boxing, and endorsements, the couple’s net worth is reported to be around £20 million.

Can you name every England Rugby captain of the professional era?

Whether it’s the grit of Will Carling in the 90s, the tactical brilliance of Martin Johnson, or the fearless leadership of Owen Farrell, this quiz will challenge even the most dedicated fans.

Think you can name them all? Grab your boots and let’s see how well you know the men who led England into battle on the world stage!

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