Social media sensation Ilona Maher is about for her Bristol Bears debut after being named on the bench for Gloucester-Hartpury’s go to to Ashton Gate on Sunday.
The American again, who boasts 3.4 million followers on TikTok, struck a take care of Bears in December, agreeing to a three-month contract starting this month.
Maher’s signing sparked a surge in curiosity in Bears’ ladies’s aspect, a lot in order that a number of matches have been moved to the membership’s a lot bigger essential venue, the place a report attendance is anticipated this weekend.
Head coach Dave Ward mentioned: “With a crowd of almost 8,000 anticipated at Ashton Gate on Sunday, it’s a vastly thrilling event and we’re hoping to provide them one thing to cheer about.
“We perceive the significance of the sport within the context of our season, and the standard of the reigning champions, however we head into the sport with confidence and relishing the event and the problem.”
Maher, who can play at each at centre and wing, gained sevens bronze with the USA in Paris, then went on to change into the runner-up on Dancing with the Stars, the American equal of Strictly Come Dancing.
The 28-year-old has not performed in 15s since 2021, however is hoping to reacquaint herself with the format in hopes of incomes a spot on the USA squad who will journey to this summer time’s World Cup in England.
She first performed 15s in school at Quinnipiac College and earned two worldwide caps through the 2021 Pacific 4 Sequence.
Maher is probably the most adopted rugby participant on social media, and rose to fame combining messages of physique positivity and feminine empowerment along with her signature sharp sense of humour.
READ MORE: ‘Trailblazer’ Ilona Maher exhibiting the best way, says World Rugby Chief
