Essex Rebels and Essex Police Welcome Young Ballers to “Ballin’ with a Bobby” Tournament

The Essex Rebels and the University of Essex to Host “Ballin’ with a Bobby” Tournament on August 29th.

In an exciting effort to bring the community together and strengthen ties between young people and local the local police, the University of Essex & Essex Rebels will host the first “Ballin’ with a Bobby” basketball tournament on Thursday, August 29th. The event, which is funded by Active Essex, is designed to be a day full of fun, teamwork, and meaningful interactions between youth and police officers.

The tournament is entirely free of charge and welcomes children from primary and secondary schools across Essex. Held at the Essex Sport Arena, the event aims to provide young participants with not only a thrilling day of sports but also an opportunity to engage with local police officers in a positive and supportive environment. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to improve perceptions of law enforcement among youth and reduce crime by involving them in constructive community activities.

Event Schedule:

• Primary School Age: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Secondary School Age: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Throughout the day, participants will take part in a range of activities including interactive crime prevention sessions, basketball skill drills led by players from the Essex Rebels, and friendly gameplay scenarios where each team will have the guidance of both a Rebels player and a local police officer.

The tournament will conclude with an awards ceremony where participants can meet and receive autographs from the Rebels players. Additionally, each child will receive a healthy packed lunch, and families will have the chance to learn about other sports opportunities available through Essex Sport, including basketball, climbing, tennis, and more.

Organisers hope that the “Ballin’ with a Bobby” event will not only encourage young people to stay active but also help build trust and understanding between the community and the police. With crime prevention education integrated into the day’s activities, the event aims to be both informative and enjoyable for all who attend.

How to Participate:

Parents and guardians are encouraged to secure their child’s spot by completing a brief survey prior to the tournament on the Essex Rebels & Essex Sport social media. With spaces limited, early booking is advised.

The organisers look forward to a day of sportsmanship, learning, and community spirit at what promises to be an unforgettable event for the young participants.

For further information or assistance with registration, please contact the event organisers directly, [email protected]