Bronze Medal Winner to be Honored with “Keys to the Field” in Battery Park on Saturday
Burlington, VT Olympic Bronze Medalist, and Burlington High School (BHS) alum, Ilona Maher is returning home to Burlington this weekend! The community is invited to celebrate her success at 10 AM at Battery Park on Saturday. Maher will be recognized by Burlington Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak as well as by her former field hockey coach Allyson Archacki. Maher will also receive the “Keys to the BHS Athletic Fields” before speaking to the crowd.
“We are really excited to be able to welcome Ilona Maher home and show her how proud we are of her accomplishments,” said Burlington School District Superintendent Tom Flanagan. “Her success both on and off the rugby pitch is a testament to her character and work ethic and a great example for all of us.”
Ilona Maher graduated from Burlington High School in 2014. During her time at BHS she played softball, basketball, field hockey, and, of course, rugby. At the 2024 Olympic Games, Ilona Maher was a major reason that the USA Women’s Rugby Sevens took home the Bronze medal. The medal is the first for the U.S. in rugby sevens for men or women, and the first U.S. medal in rugby in 100 years.
The event will kick off with the playing of the National Anthem by local trumpet legend Larry Solt and end with a ceremonial cake-cutting. All Vermonters are invited to welcome Ilona Maher home and celebrate her success!
The event will be held rain or shine.
(Photo credit Olivia Maher)
