From Rugby Field To Ballroom: 5 Shocking Moments From Ilona Maher's DWTS Journey

Ilona Maher’s transformation from a powerhouse Olympic rugby player to a graceful ballroom dancer captivated audiences during the latest season of *Dancing with the Stars* (DWTS). As of December 23, 2025, the Olympian has not only wrapped up her incredible run as the Season 33 runner-up but has also announced her return to the dance floor for the 2025 live tour, cementing her place as a fan-favorite and a true breakout star. Her journey, marked by raw emotion, surprising strength, and a powerful message of body positivity, was one of the most compelling narratives the show has ever seen. The partnership between Maher and professional dancer Alan Bersten was an instant hit, blending athletic prowess with genuine chemistry. Their final placement in the competition, finishing second to *The Bachelor* star Joey Graziadei, was a testament to her rapid improvement and the overwhelming support from the public. This article dives deep into the life and career of the USA Eagles star, exploring the key moments that defined her time in the DWTS ballroom and what she's doing next.

Ilona Maher: Olympic Rugby Star & Social Media Personality

Before she wowed the judges with her Quickstep and Freestyle, Ilona Maher was already a celebrated figure in the world of sports and social media. Her biography is a remarkable tale of athletic achievement and modern-day celebrity.

• Full Name: Ilona Delsing Rosa Maher OLY
• Date of Birth: August 12, 1996
• Age: 29 (as of 2025)
• Place of Birth: Burlington, Vermont, USA
• Hometown: Burlington, VT
• Sport: Rugby Union (Rugby Sevens)
• Position: Center
• Club: USA Sevens / Bristol Bears
• Collegiate Career: Quinnipiac University
• Major Achievements: Historic Bronze Medal at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with the USA Women's Rugby Sevens team.
• DWTS Season: Season 33
• DWTS Partner: Alan Bersten
• DWTS Placement: Runner-up (2nd Place)

Maher began playing rugby at the age of 17, quickly distinguishing herself after transferring to Quinnipiac University. Her career reached a pinnacle at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she and the USA Women's Rugby Sevens team secured the program's first-ever Olympic medal, a historic bronze. This incredible achievement set the stage for her transition to reality television, bringing her Olympian strength and viral social media presence to a whole new audience.

The Unconventional Journey: From Scrums to Salsas

Ilona Maher’s inclusion in the *Dancing with the Stars* Season 33 cast was a source of great excitement. Her fellow competitors included a diverse lineup of celebrities such as NFL player Danny Amendola, reality star Phaedra Parks, and even the infamous Anna Delvey. However, it was Maher's unique blend of raw athleticism and emotional vulnerability that set her apart.

1. The Shocking Display of Strength: Lifting Her Partner

One of the most talked-about moments of the season was Maher's decision to flip the script on traditional ballroom roles. Known for her powerful build as a rugby center, she utilized her strength to perform a lift where she hoisted her professional partner, Alan Bersten, into the air. This moment was not just a clever piece of choreography; it became a powerful statement on female athleticism and challenging gender norms in dance. The move perfectly encapsulated her DWTS journey—a celebration of her unique body and capabilities.

2. The Emotional Breakdown that Showed Her Vulnerability

Despite her tough exterior, Maher showed a deeply emotional side. During a stressful week, the pressure of learning complex routines and performing live led to a moment where she broke down in tears after feeling like she "messed up." This raw display of vulnerability resonated deeply with viewers, who saw the immense dedication and emotional toll the competition took, proving that even Olympians struggle under pressure. Her ability to bounce back and survive the subsequent double elimination only amplified her resilience.

3. The 'Feminine' Partnership with Alan Bersten

The bond between Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten was a central theme of the season. Maher, who often discusses body image and confidence on her popular social media channels, spoke openly about how dancing with Bersten made her feel "very feminine." She emphasized that this feeling was an important message for young girls to see—that strength and femininity are not mutually exclusive. Their chemistry was undeniable, with Maher frequently praising Bersten for being a "forever friend" and a supportive partner who helped her navigate the intimidating world of ballroom.

The Road to the Finale and Her Iconic Dances

Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten consistently improved, showcasing their versatility across a range of dance styles. While their Premiere Cha-Cha-Cha received their lowest score of 18, they steadily climbed the leaderboard with memorable performances that leveraged Maher's theatricality and power.

Key Performances and Scores:

• Cha-Cha-Cha: Premiere Night (Lowest Score: 18)
• Salsa: Oscars Night
• Foxtrot: Soul Train Night
• Jive: Hair Metal Night
• Rumba: Dedication Night
• Quickstep: 500th Episode Celebration
• Paso Doble: Semi-Finals (Score: 28/40)
• Freestyle: Finale (Highest Score: 30)

Her Disney Night performance, where she channeled Luisa from *Encanto*, was a fan-favorite, perfectly matching her powerful persona with the beloved animated character. The pinnacle of their journey was the finale, where their Freestyle earned a perfect score of 30, showcasing a culmination of her hard work and technical growth.

What's Next: Ilona Maher's Surprising 2025 Dance Return

After a triumphant run on Season 33, which saw her finish as a strong runner-up, Ilona Maher is not quite done with the ballroom. In a move that thrilled her dedicated fan base, she announced her return to the DWTS stage for the upcoming 2025 live tour. This limited engagement on the *Dancing with the Stars* 2025 live tour will allow fans to see her and Alan Bersten perform some of their most iconic routines live. This decision highlights the genuine connection Maher made with the show and its audience, proving that her passion for dance extends far beyond the competitive season. For Ilona Maher, the future is bright and multifaceted. She continues to be a prominent figure in the rugby world, with her sights likely set on future competitions, including the Rugby World Cup 2025. Simultaneously, her role as a social media influencer and her continued involvement with DWTS solidify her status as a mainstream celebrity. Ilona Maher’s journey is a powerful reminder that with Olympic dedication, a positive attitude, and a willingness to embrace new challenges, anyone can transition from the intensity of the rugby pitch to the glitter of the ballroom.

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