Abbie Ward. A Bump in the Road chronicles the remarkable journey of an England rugby player as she battles back to the professional game just 17 weeks after the birth of her baby in July 2023 - and then to secure her place back in England’s Six Nations squad for 2024.
Adding an extra layer of intrigue, the ultimate decision-maker for her return to play at Bristol Bears is the women’s head coach, Dave Ward . . . who is also Abbie’s husband.
The beautiful film showcases the remarkable spirit of a mother driven by an extraordinary dream: to inspire her daughter and leave an enduring legacy in sport. The film also tackles long-held myths that prevent many women from remaining active during and after their pregnancies.
This visually stunning documentary, directed and produced by Sue Anstiss and Jack Tompkins, is incredibly timely, with the Women’s Six Nations Championship taking place this month and the Rugby World Cup coming to England in 2025.
Abbie is the first player to benefit from a new RFU maternity policy, as the media spotlights the challenges and triumphs of elite sportswomen returning to professional sport as mothers.
Directors and Executive Producers
Sue Anstiss - Fearless Women
Jack Tompkins - Ben&Jack Studio
Director of Photography
Ben Marlow – Ben&Jack Studio
A Ben&Jack Studio and Fearless Women Production
