Meet 5 Women’s Rugby Stars Lighting Up the 2025 World Cup

Rugby News
Saturday, 13 September 2025 at 18:46
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Beyond the bone-crunching tackles and thunderous tries, women’s rugby is winning just as much attention off the pitch as it is on it.
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Fans today aren’t limited to matchday drama or highlight reels—they’re getting a front-row seat to the lives of their favorite stars like never before.
From intense training sessions and pre-game rituals to viral TikToks, Instagram reels, and candid off-field moments, these players are building powerful connections with supporters worldwide.
Social media has become their stage to showcase more than just rugby—whether it’s fitness, fashion, or everyday life, these athletes are proving they’re stars far beyond the game itself.
As the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup kicks off, following them online is the ultimate way to experience the passion, personality, and energy behind the tournament.
Here are the top 5 women’s rugby players you need to follow on social media this year—counting down from 5 to 1.

5. Hollie Aitchinson (England) – 57.3K Followers

Instagram: @hollieaitchinson | TikTok: @hollyaitchison_
Hollie Aitchinson combines elite rugby talent with a high-profile modeling career, including work for Victoria’s Secret.
Her Instagram captures training sessions, match-day prep, and stylish lifestyle content, while her TikTok shows her playful side off the pitch. Hollie’s mix of athleticism, charm, and modeling presence makes her a standout in both the rugby and fashion worlds.

4. Ellie Kildunne (England) – 104.6K Followers

Instagram: @elliekildunne | TikTok: @elliekildunne
England’s electric fullback, Ellie Kildunne, brings the same energy off the pitch as on it. Her Instagram reels showcase slick training sessions, match highlights, and creative moments with teammates.
On TikTok, she jumps into trends and shares behind-the-scenes glimpses, giving fans a closer look at life with the Red Roses squad. Ellie’s content balances professionalism and personality, making her a must-follow for fans who love flair both on and off the field.

3. Erica Jarrell-Searcy (USA) – 142K Followers

Instagram: @rick_jarrell.searcy | TikTok: @its_richarddd
Smart, driven, and engaging, Erica Jarrell-Searcy combines elite athleticism with academic achievement.
Her Instagram gives fans a peek into her life balancing professional rugby and her studies in Molecular and Cellular Biology at Harvard.
On TikTok, she shows a playful side, sharing fun clips with teammates and behind-the-scenes moments. Erica’s social presence is perfect for fans who appreciate authenticity, grit, and personality beyond the pitch.

2. Katelyn Vahaakolo (New Zealand) – 421K Followers

Instagram: @katelynvahaakolo | TikTok: @claryjeans
Katelyn Vahaakolo is making waves both in rugby league and union, but her social media presence sets her apart.
Her Instagram shares training routines, personal reflections, and cultural highlights, while her TikTok brings humour and lighthearted content into the mix.
With over 400K followers combined, Katelyn connects with fans through her honesty, charm, and vibrant personality.

1. Ilona Maher (USA) – 8.8M Followers

Instagram: @ilonamaher | TikTok: @ilonamaher
Ilona Maher is the undisputed queen of rugby social media. With over 8.8 million combined followers, she captures hearts with her playful, body-positive, and charismatic online presence.
From Tokyo 2021 to Paris 2024, Ilona has shared everything from locker room banter to emotional sideline moments. Fans love her unfiltered, hilarious, and inspiring content, making her a global ambassador for women’s rugby.

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