Scottish Rugby and Vodafone have announced the upcoming release of a documentary following Emma Wassell during the emotional and physical journey through one of the most challenging periods of her life.
Emma Wassell: Laoch will release next month, on April 5, and follow the Scotland women's national team ace from the concerning discovery of a 27cm tumour in her chest.
Wassell required major surgery after the medical discovery and a lengthy rehabilitation process, all while coping with the grieving process after the sudden passing of her mother, Pauline.
A Scottish Rugby announcement read: "A key part of the documentary explores Wassell’s recovery and rehabilitation, guided by Scotland Women’s Lead Clinical Physiotherapist, Flo Laing. Through close collaboration and a carefully structured recovery programme, the documentary highlights the dedication, medical expertise and resilience required to rebuild strength and confidence after major surgery.
"The documentary, titled ‘Emma Wassell: Laoch’, takes its name from the Scottish Gaelic word for ‘warrior’, a phrase that has become especially meaningful within the Scotland Women squad.
"The documentary has been supported by Vodafone, Principal Partner of Scottish Rugby’s Women’s Pathway since 2024, as part of its ‘See It. Believe It.’ campaign, which challenges misconceptions around the women’s game by showcasing the inspiring stories of players and fans.
"Through the partnership, Vodafone is helping drive the growth of women’s rugby in Scotland by supporting the development of a clear talent pipeline, including the Vodafone Regional Training Centres. "
Scotland vs England Red Roses ticket holders will receive early access to the documentary on April 4, the public premiere will be at 7pm on the Scottish Rugby YouTube.
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Wassell said: “Over the last two years I have experienced probably the most difficult period of my life. Grieving the loss of my mum while also dealing with the shock of being diagnosed with a tumour was something I never expected, and there were times when rugby felt very far away.
“The support I’ve had from my family, my teammates and the staff around the Scotland team has meant everything. Flo and the medical team were incredible throughout the rehabilitation process, helping me rebuild physically and mentally and giving me the confidence to believe I could get back on the pitch again. Being able to return to rugby and wear the Scotland jersey again is something I’ll never take for granted.
“Sharing my story wasn’t easy, but I hope the documentary shows that even through the toughest moments, the people around you can help you find your way back and achieve your dreams.”
Euan Lownie, Scottish Rugby’s content strategy lead and director of the documentary said: “Emma’s story goes far beyond rugby. It’s about a person facing incredibly difficult moments in her life and finding the strength to keep moving forward. Her courage and determination throughout this journey has been remarkable, and I know everyone at Scottish Rugby is incredibly proud of the way she has shared her story so openly.
“This documentary also highlights the people around the team who support them every day. From the care and expertise of Flo Laing and the medical team during Emma’s rehabilitation, to teammates, family and the management group who stood beside her throughout, it shows the strength of the community that exists within rugby.
“I’d like to thank Vodafone for collaborating with us on this project, the production team and colleagues across Scottish Rugby for bringing Emma’s story to life.”
Mark Huckerby, head of sponsorship, VodafoneThree, said: “Emma’s road to recovery has been extraordinary, and it’s been brilliant to work with Scottish Rugby to help bring her story to a wider audience, in the hope that it will inspire others facing their own battles – whether that’s in rugby or in life.
“While the documentary focuses on Emma’s incredible resilience and courage, it’s also a story about the wider support networks that have played such an important role in her journey, and across women’s rugby more broadly, from friends and family to clubs and communities.
“This is exactly why Vodafone’s support for the women’s game goes far beyond the pitch, as we continue to help power the connections that matter most in these moments.”
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