Ilona Maher a 'Bear for life' after emotional end to PWR season

Ilona Maher declared herself a ‘Bear for life’ after her PWR stint packed with impact on and off the field was brought to an emotional end.

Maher was on the scoresheet in the semi-final against Gloucester-Hartpury at Queensholm but could not prevent a 36-20 defeat against the reigning champions, who will defend their crown against Saracens in the final on March 16.

It was the American’s fourth score of her short-term stint in a Bristol shirt but her legacy cannot be measured in points alone.

The Olympic bronze medallist has helped drive a boost in numbers in grounds and on social media since arriving in the West Country and the appreciation is mutual, with Maher full of gratitude for the opportunity provided to her.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ilona Maher (@ilonamaher)

She said: “I’m so honoured to have played in this league that is going to change the landscape of women’s rugby. 

“I got to play with the best players in the world - Sarah Bern, Hannah Botterman, Jasmine Joyce-Butchers. There’s too many to name. 

“Knowing that I am going into this World-Cup having learnt so much from them – I am so proud.  

“I just hope people keep coming out and supporting even when I’m not playing, and we keep growing this league.” 

Maher signed a three-month contract with Bristol Bears with hopes to represent the USA Eagles during the Rugby World Cup taking place in England this summer. 

The impact of her signing has been undeniable, with increased engagement in women's rugby, a string of attendance records broken and a higher demand for tickets. 

Maher’s influence off the pitch that has just as, if not more, significant. With over eight million followers across Instagram and TikTok, Maher has made a platform of dedicated supporters through championing body positivity, hard work and self-belief. 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by BBC SPORT (@bbcsport)

After making her debut on 5 January to a record home crowd at Ashton Gate of 9,240 attendees, Maher spent an hour post-match ensuring that no fan left without a selfie. 

Two months later and despite being emotional over the semi-final loss, Maher’s commitment to those who had come to watch was as consistently unwavering as she charmed the crowd and posed for pictures. 

The next generation were particularly taken by the chance to meet their hero. The air was thick with the sounds of children's cheers, with signs displaying slogans such as ‘Strong Girls Rule’ and ‘Ilona Maher for President’. 

A young fan even made friendship bracelets for the whole Bristol Bears team which she handed to Maher for distributing. 

When asked how she found playing for the team, she said: “I have had a lot of fun. The girls made it so special for me, and I felt welcomed from the beginning. 

“Everybody on that team is world class, and to be welcomed onto a team like that and to learn from the best will hopefully put me in a better position. 

“I am so happy I made this decision to come out here. I’m a Bear for life.”