This accolade not only highlights Gemma's individual talent but also the potential of the next generation of Scottish rugby players. It speaks volumes that she is among a handful of players who competed in the U20s-based tournament this month who have just been named in the senior Scotland extended training squad, along with Holland Bogan, Leia Brebner-Holden and Lucia Scott.
"It was crazy, almost overwhelming," Gemma recalls upon receiving the MVP award. "For the girls to feel like that for me was amazing, the experience overall and leading up to that [MVP award] being the pinnacle. It was the perfect ending for me."
Despite her notable achievement, she opted for a modest celebration that reflects her grounded nature. "I have been home with family and been out for a meal, just keeping it low-key. I’m not one for a big celebration!" she shares.
She says her experience in Parma was both challenging and enriching. "It was a big learning experience as we had never played three games within ten days before, so that was one of the big things about learning how to manage that," explains the forward, who is from the North East of England, but qualifies for Scotland through her mother.
The intense schedule tested the team's endurance and resilience, but also fostered strong connections between the players. "We were able to bond really well over that time period. It was great to see who bounced off each other."
Gemma attributes her standout performances to the collective effort of the squad. "It was a big team effort. If the things leading up to that had not happened, I wouldn’t have been able to do what I did," she says.
Playing in the intense heat of Parma was a new challenge for her and her teammates. "The second game we played was 33 degrees. It was a different experience for all of us, we had never dealt with that type of heat before," she recalls. The conditions tested their fitness and adaptability, with cold towels providing some much-needed relief during matches.
Looking ahead, she is focused on her development within Scottish rugby and hopes to secure a place in the Gloucester-Hartpury side, even if it means starting with cup games. "I am just hoping to keep moving forward and will never take a step back," she asserts.
So what about that senior call-up? "No words, honestly. I’m gobsmacked," she admits. "I found out with my mum and we both sat there for a minute taking it in, a few tears later!" This opportunity is a significant step in her career, potentially putting her in the frame for next year's Guinness Women's Six Nations and Rugby World Cup.
Bell believes the Women's Summer Series is crucial for the growth of women's rugby. "It has been crucial in pushing the sport. There was a time when [women’s rugby] wasn’t as followed, but I think it's going to be great in increasing the number of people supporting and increasing the number of girls wanting to take part."
