United States rugby star Ilona Maher has not ruled out returning to play in England in the future, with her stint at Bristol Bears having come to an end.
Maher scored in the Bears’ 36-20 defeat to Gloucester-Hartpury in the Women’s Premiership semifinal on Sunday.
The result means Maher’s time in the PWR is over having signed a three-month contract until the end of the season in December.
Asked if she would consider playing in England again, Maher said: “I never say never, I think it was amazing that even I got to come and play here for two-and-a-half months.
“What I was hopefully able to do and learn in two-and-a half-months was amazing but I hope that even if I’m not playing this league continues to grow and we can get these numbers out to games even when I’m not there.”
Having already helped the U.S. to a bronze medal in sevens at last year’s Paris Olympics, Maher hopes her time with Bristol will help earn her a spot in the American squad for the 15-a-side World Cup squad in the summer.
“We start with the Pac Four with USA 15s and I hope I’ve proven myself in this space to vie for a roster spot in the USA team and I hope I’ll be selected for that,” Maher said.
“It’ll be a lot of continuing to learn the game and put myself in the position to make a roster for the World Cup but also be the best player I can be in the World Cup.”
Source: espn.com