Hoops and community spirit at Ballin’ with a Bobby tournament

More than one hundred young basketballers took to the court for an “amazing” tournament where pro players and police showcased skills and shared advice.

The finale of the Ballin’ with a Bobby project  saw the Essex Rebels team up with Essex Police for the summer holiday showpiece.

The event marked the fifth anniversary of the Ballin with a Bobby scheme which has engaged with thousands of children across Essex.

Colchester’s Community Policing Team and the University of Essex professional players oversaw fun games and activities for the primary and secondary school aged children.

The free event, hosted at the Essex Sport Arena, also saw medals, basketballs, and lunches awarded to the youngsters.

Kids of all skill levels took part in competitive games and sporting workshops, whilst also enjoying safety and awareness talks.

Organiser Liv Partridge, Sports Development Officer, said: "This was an amazing day which celebrated the very best of sport.

"It was such a joy to see children, professional players, and police officers inspire each other.

"Watching the kids grow as players, individuals, and members of the community is what makes Ballin’ with a Bobby such a special scheme,

"I just want to thank Essex Police, the Essex Rebels and all the children and families who helped make the day happen."

Liv’s thoughts were echoed by parent Chris Wilson.

"The Ballin’ With a Bobby Tournament was a fantastic day for both the kids and their parents,” he said.

"Young players had the chance to build their basketball skills under the guidance of an exceptional team of experienced coaches, who made learning the game both fun and exciting.

"The tournament offered a great opportunity to play competitive basketball in top-class facilities, while the learning sessions provided an engaging and valuable way for children and adults to boost their knowledge on staying safe - both in the community and online.

"It’s a true asset to our community, and we can’t wait for the next one.”

The Essex Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner-funded event was the culmination of 11 weeks of outreach where professional players and police officers hosted games in Colchester and surrounding villages.

PC Dex Adams, Colchester Community Safety and Engagement Officer, said: "What began as a simple idea to break down barriers between young people and the police has grown into an amazing community engagement programme.

"Ballin’ with a Bobby gives young people a voice and a safe space to connect with officers in a positive, informal setting.

"Basketball is an inclusive and accessible sport, and thanks to the free-to-use facilities provided by local councils, it’s something young people can enjoy without financial barriers—whether they’re shooting hoops solo or playing with friends.

"By meeting young people where they are—in parks, on courts, and in their communities—we’re able to build trust, promote healthy habits, and have meaningful conversations about issues that matter."

The tournament comes just weeks before the Essex Rebels launch the 2025/26 season on September 27, with general tickets on sale from Tuesday August 19.

Season tickets are now available and include more than 60 live home games across the Rebels' elite basketball and volleyball teams.

All pictures by Sanne Hoffman