U.S. rugby star Ilona Maher gets own Barbie doll

Yahoo SportsTuesday, October 7, 2025 at 4:45:00 PM
PositiveSports
U.S. rugby star Ilona Maher gets own Barbie doll
U.S. rugby star Ilona Maher has made headlines as one of four rugby players featured in Mattel's latest campaign, which aims to inspire young girls. This initiative not only celebrates Maher's achievements in sports but also promotes female empowerment and representation in traditionally male-dominated fields. By creating a Barbie doll modeled after Maher, Mattel is sending a powerful message that girls can aspire to be athletes and break barriers, making this a significant moment for both the sport and young fans.
— Curated by the World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended Readings
Barbie is teaming up with Ilona Maher and other rugby stars to help keep girls in sports
PositiveSports
Mattel is launching an Ilona Maher Barbie as part of a new initiative aimed at encouraging girls to stay involved in sports. By collaborating with international rugby stars, this campaign highlights the importance of female representation in athletics and aims to inspire young girls to pursue their passions in sports. This effort not only promotes physical activity but also empowers girls to break barriers and challenge stereotypes in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Barbie is teaming up with Ilona Maher and other rugby stars to help keep girls in sports
PositiveSports
Mattel is launching an Ilona Maher Barbie as part of a new initiative aimed at encouraging girls to stay involved in sports. This collaboration with international rugby stars highlights the importance of female representation in athletics and aims to inspire young girls to pursue their passions in sports, fostering a sense of empowerment and community.
Lewis Moody – a career in pictures
NegativeSports
Lewis Moody, the former England rugby captain and 2003 World Cup winner, has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease at the age of 47. This news is significant as it highlights the health challenges faced by athletes after their careers, reminding us of the physical toll that sports can take. Moody's legacy in rugby is celebrated through a look back at his memorable moments on the field.
Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody diagnosed with ALS
NegativeSports
Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody has been diagnosed with ALS, a serious condition that affects muscle control. At 47, Moody, who led his team to victory in the 2003 World Cup, is experiencing some muscle wasting but describes his symptoms as minor for now. This diagnosis is significant not only for Moody but also for raising awareness about ALS and its impact on athletes and their health.
England Rugby World Cup winner made into a Barbie doll
PositiveSports
Ellie Kildunne, an England Rugby World Cup winner, has been transformed into a Barbie doll, a move she describes as 'very inspiring.' This representation not only celebrates her achievements but also highlights the growing recognition of women's sports in popular culture. By featuring athletes like Kildunne in iconic toys, it encourages young girls to pursue their dreams in sports, showing them that they can be both feminine and strong.
Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody reveals he has motor neurone disease
NegativeSports
Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody has revealed that he has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease after experiencing shoulder weakness during a gym session. This news is significant as it highlights the challenges faced by athletes after their careers and raises awareness about motor neurone disease, a condition that affects the nervous system and can lead to severe physical decline.
Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody reveals MND diagnosis
NegativeSports
Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody has revealed his diagnosis of motor neurone disease at the age of 47. In an emotional interview with the BBC, he expressed difficulty in coming to terms with the implications of this condition for his future and his family, despite experiencing only mild symptoms so far. This news is significant as it highlights the challenges faced by athletes after their careers and raises awareness about motor neurone disease.
Call for more rugby opportunities for girls
PositiveSports
Ella Russell, a 17-year-old rugby player, highlights the challenges she faced in finding enough players to form a team when she started playing. Her story underscores the need for more opportunities for girls in rugby, which is crucial for promoting inclusivity and encouraging young women to participate in sports. By advocating for more resources and support, Ella aims to inspire a new generation of female athletes.
Latest from Sports
Bronx Zoo: Loud boos for ‘O Canada’ before Game 3
NegativeSports
During Game 3 of the American League Division Series, the Canadian national anthem, 'O Canada,' was met with loud boos from the crowd at Yankee Stadium. This incident highlights the intense rivalry between the Toronto Blue Jays and the New York Yankees, showcasing how passionate fans can be about their teams. Such reactions can impact the atmosphere of the game and reflect the deep-seated emotions tied to sports rivalries.
Pacers’ Delon Wright has bloody collision with Jaylen Clark in preseason game vs. Timberwolves
NegativeSports
In a preseason game between the Indiana Pacers and the Minnesota Timberwolves, a serious collision occurred between Pacers guard Delon Wright and Timberwolves guard Jaylen Clark. This incident not only overshadowed the game but also raised concerns about player safety during preseason matches. Such accidents can impact team dynamics and player availability as the regular season approaches.
Iowa football’s Kirk Ferentz still unsure about Mark Gronowski vs. Wisconsin
NeutralSports
Iowa football coach Kirk Ferentz is uncertain about the starting quarterback Mark Gronowski as the team prepares to face Wisconsin after a close loss to Indiana. This matchup is crucial for the Hawkeyes as they aim to recover and improve their season standing in the competitive Big Ten conference. Fans are eager to see how the team will adjust and whether Gronowski will take the field against a tough opponent.
Alabama State, Jackson State will be HBCU the game of the year
PositiveSports
This weekend's matchup between Alabama State and Jackson State is being hailed as the Game of the Year in HBCU football, coinciding with Jackson State's homecoming. With Alabama State currently at 4-1, this game could significantly influence the trajectory of the SWAC and HBCU football overall. It's an exciting time for fans and players alike, as the stakes are high and the atmosphere is electric.
NFL Fantasy Football Week 6 Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em: D/ST
PositiveSports
Week 6 of the NFL and fantasy football season is here, bringing excitement as fantasy managers make crucial adjustments to enhance their teams' performance. After a series of surprising outcomes in Week 5, including a thrilling finish in the Titans vs. Cardinals game, this week is pivotal for strategizing and setting up for success in the remainder of the season.
High school boys golf: Skyline rallies late to beat Olympus for 5A title by one stroke
PositiveSports
In an exhilarating finish, Skyline's boys golf team clinched the 5A title by just one stroke against Olympus, showcasing their resilience and skill. Austin Shelley emerged as the medalist in a thrilling playoff, highlighting the team's determination and talent. This victory not only marks a significant achievement for Skyline but also inspires young athletes in the community to strive for excellence in sports.