Essex Rebels make volleyball history with record UK crowd

The Essex Rebels were cheered on by the largest crowd British volleyball has ever seen at an incredible record-breaking game.

Fans, families, students and staff flocked to the Essex Sport Arena on Saturday for the action-packed doubleheader.

An incredible crowd of 653 descended on the University of Essex to support both the men’s and women’s sides as they took on the Durham Palatinates.

The previous league record stood at 506 and was set in Crystal Palace earlier this year at the Final-4, which is the play-off tournament for the domestic league where both Rebels sides played.

Relive the amazing day in the gallery below - pictures by Bruno Giesteira

The thrilling doubleheader is the second time the Essex Rebels have written their name in the history books, with the Rebels’ setting the British attendance record for women’s basketball in March 2023.

The Rebels have thanked everyone who made it happen and urged the Essex community to get behind the volleyball and basketball teams for the rest of the season.

Women’s head coach Alex Chinery said: "Saturday was an incredible event that truly showcased the Essex spirit.

"To look out from the side line and see some many people cheering us on was unlike anything we have ever experienced before.

"We are so thankful for everyone who came and everyone who put in so much hard work to make it possible.

"At Essex we have special people who do special things, we can't wait to celebrate our community again in a couple of weeks' time when we play at home against Malory Eagles!"

A sentiment echoed by Volleyball England.

A spokesman said: “It was fantastic to see such a large and enthusiastic crowd in Essex for the Super League Live event, with both the men’s and women’s matches so well supported.

“At Volleyball England, we are continually striving to push the boundaries of what’s possible for a sport that often flies under the radar.

“We hope this will be the first of many major events held across the country this season, each attracting strong attendance and showcasing the exciting future of volleyball in England.”

The soaring popularity of the Rebels comes as the University celebrates a top-30 national ranking in sport and an unprecedented year of student sporting success.

With the University bringing home three British University and College Sport (BUCS) championships at its flagship Big Wednesday tournament.