Ilona Maher, a star of the U.S. women’s rugby sevens team and a prominent advocate for women’s sports, continues to use her platform to push for greater visibility, investment, and opportunities for female athletes. Known for her engaging presence on and off the field, Maher has been vocal about the need to expand women’s sports at all levels, from youth programs to professional leagues.
The Importance of Representation and Investment
Maher believes that increased media coverage and financial investment are crucial to growing women’s sports. While women’s sports have gained significant traction in recent years, especially with athletes’ success in the WNBA, NWSL, and rugby—she argues that more must be done to close the gap between men’s and women’s leagues.
“Women’s sports aren’t just an afterthought,” Maher has stated in interviews. “People want to watch them. We just need the platforms and resources to showcase the talent that’s out there.”
Building a Stronger Pipeline for Female Athletes
Another key area Maher emphasizes is development at the grassroots level. She highlights the need for more funding in school and club programs so that young girls have access to quality training and coaching. According to Maher, fostering a strong foundation at a young age will help create future stars across various sports.
“More young girls need to see that playing sports at the highest level is an option for them,” she said. “That comes from better development programs and more visibility of professional female athletes.”
The Role of Social Media in Growing Women’s Sports
Thanks to her TikTok and social media presence, Maher is one of the most recognizable figures in rugby. She has demonstrated how digital platforms can be a game-changer for women’s sports. She frequently shares behind-the-scenes moments, training routines, and insights into her life as a professional athlete, helping bridge the gap between players and fans.
“Social media gives us the power to market ourselves and our sports in ways that traditional media hasn’t always done for us,” Maher said. “It allows us to build a fanbase and show that women’s sports are just as exciting, dynamic, and competitive.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Women’s Sports
Maher remains optimistic about the future of women’s sports but stresses the need for continued advocacy and action. She calls on leagues, brands, and fans to support female athletes not just during major events like the Olympics or World Cups but year-round.
With athletes like Ilona Maher leading the charge, the conversation around expanding and elevating women’s sports is growing stronger. As more investment, coverage, and opportunities emerge, the future looks bright for the next generation of female athletes.
