About
Based at the University of Essex, the Essex Rebels comprise a women’s and men’s volleyball team that compete in the National Super League.
The Rebel Way.
Home to the curious, brave and bold, at the University of Essex, where exploring new ways of thinking and pushing boundaries isn’t just encouraged, it’s expected.
Committed to excellence in everything we do, at the heart of our activities is supporting young people to achieve their full potential in their academic and sporting pursuits within our dual-career pathway.
Volleyball was the first performance sport introduced at the University of Essex in 2013. Since then, the Head of Volleyball and men’s Head Coach Alex Porter has built a program that is constantly at the pinnacle of the sport in the UK.
Proud to be a Rebel.
Major achievements include:
· 2024 Women’s BUCS National Finalist and Men’s Bronze Super League Final Four
· 2023 Men’s National Cup Finalist and BUCS National Finalist
· 2022 Men’s BUCS National Finalist
· 2019 Men’s BUCS National Champions
· 2017-19 4 x Men’s and Women’s National Student Cup Champions
· 2014-2024 11 x BUCS League Titles
Since the creation of the Essex Rebels in 2022, we have helped drive the sport of volleyball forward. Bringing the best gameday experience to the Volleyball England Super League and becoming the first teams to employ professional volleyball athletes whilst winning an historic first ever bronze medal at the Super League Final Four. We’ve changed the game and there’s more to come. Join us on the journey!
What makes The Essex Rebels special?
A Rebel is curious, brave, and bold and we are no different. Where many see hard work, we see opportunity. The Rebels are helping to drive meaningful change within the sport by investing in both the athlete and spectator experience in ways not seen elsewhere within the sport.
Our very own Essex Sport Arena is the largest in the Super League, creating a pioneering gameday fan experience that will elevate our athletes to the next level, one befitting their skill and dedication.
Our focus is athlete centred and there is no better place for young athletes to develop. From 152 athletes, 30 alumni have gone on to win their first National Team senior cap, either whilst at Essex or shortly after leaving. Additionally, 26 separate alumni have gone on to obtain their first professional volleyball contract after graduating the program. We are proud of our history, but even more excited about our future.
Sports scholarships.
The University of Essex offers sports scholarships to talented volleyball players studying for both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. A full support package encompassing daily on-court coaching, strength and conditioning coaching, lifestyle advice, sports science testing, and support and advice in areas such as psychology and nutrition
The University of Essex is also a Sport England Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme centre, and is an accredited dual-career site, supporting young athletes in their academic and sporting development.
For more information please contact Susy Davies, Performance Sport Manager.
Email: [email protected]
Upcoming matches & events
NATIONS UNITE: Volleyball Doubleheader
NATIONS UNITE: A Cultural Celebration at the Rebels Volleyball Doubleheader
Join us for an exciting day of sports and cultural diversity at the Essex Sports Arena on Saturday, 25 January as our Women’s and Men’s Volleyball team will be taking on the Durham Palatinates in the Superleague.
Essex Rebels Women vs Durham Palatinates | 12.30pm
Essex Rebels Men vs Durham Palatinates | 3pm
This event is also a unique opportunity to celebrate various cultures coming together through the universal language of sports!
Don’t miss out on:
🚩 Flagparade
🎁 BIG Giveaways
🍔 Classic gameday food and drink
🎵 DJ Taiwo & MC Huncho Stan
🕺 Essex Flames Cheerleaders & African Caribbean Society Performance
🚪 Doors open 12pm
And if you have never seen a Volleyball game – Do not worry! It is an extremely fun sport to watch, and our commentary will help you understand the game in no time!
Mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable afternoon of sports and cultures. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the spirit of NATIONS UNITE!
Rebels Volleyball Clinic
Join the Essex Rebels Volleyball Clinic!
Curious about sports or volleyball? A clinic is a fun, hands-on session where you’ll learn the fundamentals of the game from experienced players—and the Essex Rebels Volleyball Clinic is the perfect chance to get started. Taking place on Saturday, 25 January 2025, from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, this free event will be held at the Essex Sport Arena. Whether you’re new to the game or looking to refine your skills, everyone is welcome to join in on the fun.
The clinic is open to boys and girls in two age groups: 7–11 and 12–15. Led by the Essex Rebels volleyball players themselves, this session is a great way to have fun, make new friends, and get active. Plus, when you sign up, you’ll receive a FREE ticket to the exciting Nations Unite Volleyball Doubleheader happening after the Volleyball Clinic.
What’s in store?
- Expert Coaching: Learn from the best! Our very own Essex Rebels volleyball players will be running the clinic
- All Skills Welcome: Whether you’re a beginner or looking to level up your game, everyone is welcome—no prior experience needed
- Exclusive Perk: Sign up for the clinic and get a free ticket to the Nations Unite Volleyball Doubleheader.
- Cost: Absolutely FREE
Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to learn from the pros and be part of an incredible day of volleyball action. Spots are limited, so sign up now to secure your place!
Don’t miss our next big game
Come and see fast-paced, action-packed, top-level professional volleyball in a first-class venue. Match days offer family-friendly entertainment including a DJ, big screen, cheerleaders, interactive competitions, children’s activities, refreshments, and our larger-than-life mascot, Queen B.
We Are Rebels – come join the rebellion!
