- Ilona Maher is renowned for her dominance on the rugby field, combining power and speed to become one of the sport’s most formidable players.
- However, her rise to the top has been far from easy, as she faced constant criticism over her “masculine” physique.
- Delve into the compelling journey of how Ilona Maher dealt with the criticism and emerged as an inspiring advocate for body positivity.
From her early days in Vermont to representing the USA at the Olympics, Ilona Maher’s story is one of determination and resilience. Raised in a sports-centric family, Ilona’s path was marked by a significant transition to rugby, where she quickly made her mark.
Ilona Maher during the Women’s Rugby Sevens Quarter Final match between Team Great Britain and Team United States on day three of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 on July 29 in France. | Source: Getty Images
Sadly, throughout her life, Ilona has struggled with her body image, being labeled “overweight” in her youth and later being called a man due to her muscular physique as an athlete.
In light of this, Ilona used her platform to champion body positivity, amassing a large following on social media where she inspired others to embrace their bodies.
Ilona Maher’s Journey to Becoming an Olympic Athlete
Ilona, renowned for her agility and strength on the rugby field, didn’t start her athletic journey with rugby. Born and raised in Vermont, Ilona was always surrounded by sports. Her early years were filled with field hockey, basketball, and softball, where she excelled and developed her competitive spirit.
Growing up in a sports-loving family, she and her sisters were constantly engaged in high-level sports activities. “Ever since we first picked up a ball, you could tell we were athletes,” she recalled. However, in high school, Ilona yearned for something new.
“By spring of my senior year [of high school], I [felt] done with softball. I’d done winter pitching clinics, done my time in the outfield. I just was sick of not a lot of movement going on,” she explained.
Ilona Maher signing autographs after the championship game of the HSBC USA Women’s Sevens tournament on October 21, 2018, in Glendale, Colorado. | Source: Getty Images
Her father, a seasoned rugby player and coach, suggested she try rugby. His passion for the sport was contagious, and Ilona decided to give it a shot. “It’s kind of a big motivator to make your parents proud in anything,” she shared.
“I studied nursing. My mom’s a nurse, [and] I went into the medical field for her. My dad loves rugby. […] It’s really just a motivator to be able to give back all of the hard work they did for me,” she continued.
From her first game, it was clear that rugby was the perfect fit for Ilona. “My dad will tell you. He was so hyped,” she shared. The athlete immediately felt at home on the field, scoring three tries and making several tackles. Her father’s excitement and encouragement only fueled her passion further.
As high school ended, Ilona initially planned to play field hockey at the University of Vermont while pursuing a nursing degree. However, her newfound love for rugby and a desire for change led her to Quinnipiac University in Connecticut, which had just introduced a women’s rugby program.
At Quinnipiac, Ilona quickly made a name for herself, playing against formidable teams such as Dartmouth, Penn State, Army, and Central Washington. Her natural talent and hard work earned her a starting position, and soon, people began suggesting she could play at an even higher level.
“Like a lot of female athletes, you don’t ever think you’re going to be a professional athlete. Maybe as a basketball or soccer player, that’s something on your radar,” she noted.
Ilona Maher during the Bronze Medal Final between USA and France on day two of the HSBC Women’s Rugby Sevens Kitakyushu on April 21, 2019, in Japan. | Source: Getty Images
However, the idea of playing for the USA team began to take hold. “I made it my mission my senior year spring of college to play for USA. I look back and am impressed by that young girl, who was doing nursing in 12-hour clinicals, also getting two-a-day lifts and running daily,” she reflected.
Ilona’s hard work paid off. She made her debut for the USA national sevens team in 2018 in Paris, France, and was later named on the 2020 Olympic roster. As the 2024 Paris Olympics approached, her Vermont community rallied behind her, proud to see one of their own on such a grand stage.
“It’s nice to be back and realize that this was the kind of stepping stone for an Olympic career,” her mother, Mieneke Maher, remarked, reflecting on the journey.
The Olympian’s performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics was nothing short of spectacular. She scored tries in all three group games and helped Team USA secure their first-ever medal in the event, a bronze, with a thrilling 14-12 victory against Australia.
Ilona Maher celebrating Team USA’s victory over Team Australia during the Women’s Rugby Sevens Bronze Medal match on day four of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 on July 30 in France. | Source: Getty Images
However, the athlete humorously added that her father preferred 15s rugby. “He jokes that 15s is real rugby and that when I’m playing sevens, I’m playing ‘fake rugby.’ He can say what he wants. I got to go to the Olympics,” she said with a laugh.
Reflecting on her Olympic journey, Ilona admitted, “It really never crossed my mind. I think it was always just in the back of my mind — maybe I can go to the Olympics or play professionally.”
“When I was young, and in some cases now, it would be almost dumb as a woman to think, ‘I’ll be a professional athlete’ because it’s so hard for us in this landscape,” she continued.
Ilona Maher during the Team USA Media Summit on April 15, 2024, in New York. | Source: Getty Images
Facing Criticism Over Her Looks and Embracing Body Positivity
Despite her accomplishments, Ilona’s journey as a rugby star has not always been pleasant, especially regarding body image. Throughout her life, Ilona has faced criticism for not fitting into the traditional ideals of feminine beauty.
Ilona Maher during the Women’s Rugby Sevens Pool C match between France and United States on day three of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 on July 29 in France. | Source: Getty Images
In an emotional 2022 TikTok video, the athlete revealed that she often had to deal with being called a man or questions about whether or not she used steroids. Ilona added that despite being a very confident person, she still struggled with her body image from time to time.
“I think I’m getting emotional because I feel very passionate about this,” she said through tears. As a muscular, broad woman, she often confronted societal expectations that equate femininity with being tiny, petite, and delicate. However, Ilona never aspired to fit that mold.
Instead, she embraced her strength and physique. She recognized that her body was uniquely hers, and had achieved incredible things, including making her one of the top Rugby Sevens players in the world.
Ilona Maher during a Women’s HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series match on April 30, 2022, in Langford, British Columbia, Canada. | Source: Getty Images
Growing up, Ilona struggled with the concept of loving her body, especially when confronted with idealized images online. In a 2024 TikTok video, the rugby player admitted that she had been considered “overweight” her whole life.
However, her fans rallied around her, showing their support. “You are perfect. I love your content and I can’t wait to cheer you on at the Olympics,” a social media user typed. Another added, “Ilona. You are an absolute legend.”
“You’re literally perfect. In every way. Can’t wait to cheer you on!!!,” a third shared. A fourth commented, “Seriously, you’re amazing! Your personality/sense of humor reminds me of Sandra Bullocks’ character in ‘Miss Congeniality’ haha!”
Over time, Ilona realized that the key was not necessarily to love her body unconditionally, which can be challenging. Instead, it was to appreciate what her body could do.
This shift in perspective helped her see her body as more than just something to be looked at. It was also a powerful, capable instrument that had carried her to the Olympics.
Ilona’s appreciation for her body extended to her views on food and nutrition. She saw eating well as a balance between fueling her body and enjoying life. For her, eating well didn’t mean sticking strictly to vegetables, chicken, and rice.
It meant finding a balance, indulging in a piece of cake or a sugary cup of coffee when she wanted, and enjoying two scoops of peanut butter without guilt. Her relationship with food was one of comfort and nourishment, influenced by her upbringing.
Ilona Maher during the 2024 Perth SVNS Women’s match between New Zealand and USA on January 27 in Perth, Australia. | Source: Getty Images
To Ilona, food represented love and warmth, and she believed that no food was inherently bad unless consumed in excess. By appreciating what her body could do rather than constantly striving to love its appearance, Ilona found a more sustainable and positive narrative around food and body image.
Ilona Maher at the official Los Angeles red carpet premiere and screening of “A League Of Their Own” on August 4, 2022. | Source: Getty Images
Ilona also spoke passionately about the importance of body positivity, not just for herself, but for other women who might feel out of place because of their strength and muscularity.
“I want you all to take a look at all the different body types on display. All body types matter. All body types are worthy,” Ilona said in a TikTok video posted during the 2024 Paris Olympics opening ceremony.
“From the smallest gymnast to the tallest volleyball player, from a rugby player to a shot-putter, a sprinter. All body types are beautiful, can do amazing things. Truly see yourself in these athletes and know that you can do it too,” she continued.
However, Ilona’s journey hasn’t been without physical setbacks. During a seemingly innocuous game of touch rugby, she suffered a severe ankle injury. She broke her fibula and displaced her ankle bones, requiring surgery to insert a nail in her fibula and metal pieces to stabilize her ankle.
Ilona Maher during the Women’s Pool C match between United States and Japan on day two of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 on July 28 in France. | Source: Getty Images
The injury was a tough blow, but Ilona viewed it as part of the athletic experience. She was fortunate to have access to full-time trainers, and physical and massage therapists, who helped her recover efficiently.
With the season over and her team qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics, Ilona could focus on healing and preparing for the upcoming games. Despite these challenges, Ilona’s perspective on her body remained rooted in appreciation.
Ilona Maher at the Women’s Sports Foundation’s Annual Salute To Women In Sports event on October 12, 2023, in New York. | Source: Getty Images
Promoting Body Positivity on Social Media
Over the years, Ilona has harnessed the power of social media to spread her message of body positivity and empowerment. She has amassed hundreds of thousands of followers across various platforms at the time of writing, using her presence to inspire others to appreciate their bodies.
She felt a sense of responsibility to be a role model, showing them that it was okay to be strong and powerful. Reflecting on her high school years, she wished she had seen someone like herself — someone who celebrated their body for its abilities rather than its appearance.
By advocating for body positivity, Ilona found a way to accept and appreciate her own body even more. Through her engaging content, Ilona shared her journey as a professional athlete. Followers also saw her personal struggles and triumphs in the space she created where they could find motivation and support.
In 2023, Ilona shared a TikTok video encouraging viewers to accept their bodies, particularly cellulite, as it was “completely normal” and “completely natural.” Ilona candidly revealed that despite being a “literal Olympian,” she had cellulite “everywhere.”
“It is really important to have a profile, and a profile for our sport. It’s about building the brand. The game is very strong, not just for men, but for women too,” she emphasized. Ilona’s vibrant personality and candid discussions about body image resonated with her audience, making her a beloved figure both on and off the field.
She posted workout routines, nutritional advice, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into her life as a professional athlete. Ilona’s mother was particularly proud of her daughter’s efforts. “Having Ilona be an advocate for mental health, ultimately, you know, body positivity… I think it’s amazing,” she said.
Ilona’s journey from a restless high school athlete to an Olympic rugby star is a testament to her passion and determination. Facing criticism and physical challenges, she transformed adversity into advocacy. With hundreds of thousands of followers, Ilona inspired others to appreciate their bodies.
