Ilona Maher shares how she is keeping her momentum for 2025, interview
Even if some people might not understand a scrum or appreciate the scoring nuances, Ilona Maher has introduced rugby to a wider audience. Beyond her social media presence, the Team USA Olympian has used her platform to be a positive influence and add a little humor along the way. With 2025 quickly approaching, Maher knows that her opportunities are just getting started.
During the 2024 Summer Olympics, Ilona Maher became one of the stars of the world event. Beyond her and Team USA’s success, Maher was a strong voice for women athletes. The positive role model used her platform to speak open and honestly about being athletic, embracing your personal self, and dismissing any negative commentary.
After the Olympics, she waltzed her way onto Dancing with the Stars. Her impressive showing further endeared her to fans. To say that Maher excels in anything that she puts her mind to might be an understatement.
Recently, Maher partnered with Quaker Oats to help fuel her busy, exciting, and full days. While she might have traded the ballroom for the rugby pitch for 2025, one thing is clear for Maher. Good food choices are, and always have been, a priority.
Recently, I conducted an email interview with Ilona Maher. From facing her critics to being a voice for body positivity, her candid responses show why she is a champion on all fronts.
Cristine Struble/FoodSided: This year has been a huge one for you. Looking back, did you expect such a triumphant year both in sports and in pop culture? Are there a few highlights that still astonish you?
Ilona Maher: “Honestly, I have been working towards this since Tokyo. I have consistently been putting myself out there and posting videos. This doesn’t feel out of the ordinary. Highlights would just be enjoying all the moments this year.”
CS: What was harder - the pressure of competing in the Olympics or standing up to the judges' critiques on Dancing with the Stars?
IM: “Competing at the Olympics. I was fine with the judges’ critiques. Of course they are gonna be critical. I have literally never danced before.”
CS: Given your large presence on social media, you have used the hashtag, beast, beauty, brains, and have been a voice for body positivity. Going into the New Year, how can people better appreciate that New Year's Resolutions should be attainable or manageable for their lifestyle? Do you have a resolution for 2025?
IM: “My resolution is to try to really stay present with where I am at and not try to skip ahead. Remember that even if you miss one day of a resolution, you can absolutely try the next. Be kind to yourself. And don’t skip breakfast! One of my top breakfast choices is Quaker Oats because they’re made with 100% whole grains, are a good source of fiber, and are just plain tasty.”
CS: With your degree in Nursing, you are well-versed in appreciating balanced nutritional choices. How does Quaker Oats fit into your routine?
IM: "Honestly, it’s the need for fuel and nourishing my body. I think fueling your body is so important. It does so much for you that it’s only fair to treat it right. Quaker Oats has great products to help make sure your body can keep up with you, CARBS ARE FUEL!! Plus, they’re made with 100% whole grains and are a good source of fiber!”
CS: What were some of your favorite foods that fueled your training? How did you keep those recipes from becoming bland or boring?
IM: “I think the great thing about Quaker Oats is that you can literally dress it differently whenever you want. Salty or sweet. Chocolate or fruit-forward. I also make sure to get a lot of protein in.”
CS: Rugby had a huge moment during the Olympics. What is key to keeping the sports' momentum going?
IM: “Continue to put ourselves out there as players. Share content of us playing and being wonderful selves so people can see more of what we do. My teammates are all incredible and I’m so happy the world is getting to know them as well.”
CS: What's on the horizon for 2025?
IM: “Hopefully more rugby and laughs! I’m also now kicking off my partnership with Quaker Oats and we have some fun things planned for next year – I enjoy working with brands I believe in and actually use, so stay tuned for more content around how Quaker helps keep me fueled all day long!”
While eating Quaker Oats may not guarantee a medal, it is a win to keep fueled for everything that comes your way. Champions are not born into greatness; they hone their skills and use tools to support that journey. Ready to fuel your future success?