Loughborough Lightning can confirm that Emma Wassell has left the club to pursue a new opportunity.

The 67-times capped Scotland international joined Lightning towards the end of the 2021/22 season, and scored a try on her debut in a 26-12 victory over Sale Sharks.

Wassell went on to make 28 appearances over four seasons for the African Violets, with her most recent being the victory over Harlequins at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens 11 months ago.

In September 2024, the second row was diagnosed with a tumour in her chest and was withdrawn from Scotland’s WXV 2 squad. The 30-year-old underwent a sternotomy and missed the entirety of the 2024/25 Premiership Women’s Rugby season as she recovered from the surgery and commenced her rehabilitation.

Wassell said:

“Ever since I have been a professional rugby player, I have been at Lightning. It has definitely pushed me massively. When everything happened with my tumour diagnosis I was in Scotland, I had big intentions to go back and have a big season with Lightning, especially with how we ended the 2023/24 season."

“Even though I wasn’t always there in person, the support I have received from Loughborough players and coaches in terms of any way they can help me, they were there. Any time I did make the trip down, I was always made to feel incredibly welcome and supported. Everyone has been huge supporters of me and wishing me do my absolute best in terms of my recovery and getting back to rugby."

“I would’ve loved to have pulled on the Lightning shirt one more time and give it the send off, because the last time I wore it I had a full expectation of playing a full season. I have nothing but love and respect for the club and all the people in it. I just wish that I could’ve contributed more to the club myself, but I do hope they do incredibly well and I will always be a big fan.”

Lightning head coach Nathan Smith said:

“I have nothing but admiration for the way Emma has tackled her rehabilitation, and while her return to the field will now no longer be with us, we are willing her on to complete that journey. We wish Emma all the best for the future and thank her for her contribution to Loughborough Lightning.”