Ilona Maher on Whether She'd Do 'The Bachelorette,' What She'd Look For in the Winning Contestant & More

PureWow: I loved watching you on Dancing with the Stars—you and your partner did so well! What went through your mind when you made it to the semifinals?

Ilona Maher: Mostly pride. I wanted to show in the semifinals that I deserve to be there and I am improving.

PW: What was your absolute favorite routine to work on with Alan?

IM: We had a lot of fun doing the Encanto dance. We really workshopped it together at times. And he’s done such an incredible job choreographing to my strengths all season and making me feel and look beautiful.

PW: Who else would you love to see on DWTS in the future?

IM: I would love to see people from sports like rugby that have never had that level of representation in the media out there.

PW: You've been sending such a refreshing message, that it's possible to be graceful, feminine and athletic. What would you say to young girls who want to follow in your footsteps?

IM: You get to decide how you feel, because probably for years and years to come, people will still be small-minded about things. It takes knowing yourself and also listening to those around you who truly matter. You aren’t just one thing. We are so much. #beastbeautybrains

PW: If you weren't a rugby player, what other sport would you absolutely crush?

IM: I loved basketball and was also very good at field hockey. I actually almost played field hockey in college too—on top of securing my nursing degree and playing D1 rugby.

PW: How do you find the motivation to train and work out on tougher days?

IM: On my tougher days, I get up, fuel my body and always remind myself that my training is for a purpose and that I will feel great afterward. It helps to have something to look forward to—like my favorite playlist or a warm breakfast.

PW: The new year is fast approaching—do you have any big goals or resolutions?

IM: I try to really stay present with where I am at and not try to skip ahead. I’ve always gotten ahead of myself with prepping and living in or for whatever’s next. I hope to slow down and take it all in (while staying busy!).

PW: How do you practice self-care during the busy holiday season?

IM: Being home with my family is self-care for me. That is the space I allow myself to fully turn off. Sharing meals together has always been a huge part of our family. No topic is too big or small. It’s healing to have a group like my family to turn to no matter what and enjoy something as simple as dinner around the table.

PW: Do you have a favorite holiday tradition?

IM: Eating my mom’s freshly baked-from-scratch cinnamon rolls with my sisters in our jammies. We then drink tea while we read or [work on] puzzles.

PW: Several fans are saying you should be the next Bachelorette. Would you be open to it if given the opportunity? And if so, what qualities would you look for in a guy who deserves the final rose?

IM: I’m not sure. I really pride myself on being authentic and just being myself and I feel like, at times, that show can spin things in certain ways. [As for the qualities I'd look for in a guy, he has to be] kind, funny, finds me funny and have good conversation.

PW: What advice would you offer to women who struggle with keeping their goals?

IM: Remember that even if you miss one day, 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 percent whole grains, are a good source of fiber, and are just plain tasty. I know I’m getting the nourishment and fiber I need.

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