'Bigger than the sport right now' - American Rugby star Ilona Maher tipped for greatness by Bristol Bears teammate

Barely a week after signing a three-month deal with Premiership Women's Rugby side Bristol Bears, American star Ilona Maher has brought so much energy to the team's dressing room. 

This is according to teammate and fly-half Holly Aitchison who told the BBC that the Paris Olympic sevens bronze medalist  has caused a massive buzz in the dressing room. 

"She's an icon and bigger than the sport right now. We need those people in our game, so everyone's been a little bit silly," Aitchison said.

 "She's a gorgeous girl in her own right. She's been fab, she brings so much energy.............So far, she's just loving being around the girls. Everyone's giddy, and rightly so," she added.

Bristol Bears sit fourth in the nine-team league, having accumulated 25 points from a possible 33, after mastering five wins and two losses in seven matches.

The 28-year-old Maher is a huge social media figure, with 4.5 million Instagram followers and 3.2 million on TikTok but will start playing in Bristol colours in January 2025.  "It's been really lovely to get her here, settle her in a bit and for everyone to get to know her," reflected Aitchison.