Ilona Maher looking to ‘inspire a whole new generation’ after inking multi-year deal with adidas
Ilona Maher adidas
USA international Ilona Maher’s stock is continuing to soar after it was confirmed that the rugby superstar has signed a multi-year deal with sports powerhouse adidas.
The 28-year-old is the latest member of adidas’ roster of elite-level athletes.
Maher, who recently enjoyed a successful spell at Premiership Women’s Rugby (PRW) outfit Bristol Bears, is keen to feature for the USA at the 2025 World Cup in England.
Successful stint at Bristol
She’s now returned home after a semi-final defeat to Gloucester-Hartpury and will hope her PWR form secures a spot in the USA squad for the Pacific Four Series matches.
Impressive performances in that tournament would likely lead to Maher, who has a whopping 4.9m followers on Instagram, playing for her country at the Rugby World Cup.
Speaking about inking the deal with adidas, the Olympic Games bronze medallist is excited to work with the brand and revealed there will be a surprise in the coming months.
“Throughout discussions with adidas, their passion for rugby was clear and the pursuit to deliver only the best for athletes playing their sport,” said the popular rugby star.
“The adidas team really show their support for the women’s game at all levels. I can’t wait to work with adidas to inspire a whole new generation to pick up a rugby ball, while also understanding that strength and power is beautiful.
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“I’m particularly excited to reveal a new boot for the women’s game in the coming months – so keep your eyes peeled for that.”
Maher has become a global icon and inspiration to many women and young girls as her social media followers can enjoy behind the scenes insight into life as a rugby player.
She crossed for four tries in seven matches for Bristol Bears and thoroughly enjoyed her stint in the English league. She also refused to close the door on a potential return.
“I never say never, I think it was amazing that even I got to come and play here for two and a half months,” Maher told BBC Sport after the semi-final defeat at Queensholm.
“What I was hopefully able to do and learn in two and a half months was amazing but I hope that even if I’m not playing this league continues to grow and we can get these numbers out to games even when I’m not there.”
Proud of being a Bear
Maher added: “I’m proud to have been part of this team, a special programme they have here.”
“The girls were so welcoming and made me part of the team and I got to play with some of England’s best players and Wales and Scottish, so it just set me up to be more successful at the World Cup.
“I’ll be playing against them – I wish I was playing with them but it was amazing.”
