Hundreds enjoy Essex Rebels community day

The Essex Rebels brought the community together as hundreds of families, fans and young athletes turned out for a special basketball celebration at the University of Essex.

Held at the Essex Sport Arena, the Community Day marked the club’s final home doubleheader of the season and offered a chance to thank Colchester for its support in another successful year on and off the court.

The day began with a vibrant community programme designed to open sport to all ages and abilities.

Community Day forms part of the Rebels’ wider mission to break down barriers to participation in sport, combining professional-level competition with grassroots opportunities and family-friendly experiences.

It showcased the strength of the Rebels’ growing fanbase, with local supporters, students and families coming together to create a festival atmosphere around the arena.

Youngsters took part in taster sessions, trying their hand at basketball, cricket and climbing under the guidance of coaches and student athletes, while families enjoyed a lively pre-game fanzone.

Andrea Kohlhaas, Rebels marketing officer, said: “It was brilliant to see so many people through the doors and to feel that buzz around the arena.

“Community Day is about giving something back and making sport accessible to everyone, and the support we’ve had shows just how much the Rebels mean to Colchester.

“It captured everything we’re trying to achieve as a club - bringing people together through sport while showcasing the very best of our teams on the court.”

The atmosphere continued to build throughout the afternoon as supporters filled the arena for a showcase of elite sport, with both the Rebels women’s and men’s teams in action.

The doubleheader showcased strong performances on court matched by an energetic crowd in the stands.

It was the last time the men ran out in the Essex Sport Arena this season and they fell short 59:75.

The women’s side triumphed over London Lions 86:66 and are in a strong position for the play-offs.

They have their last home game of the regular season on Saturday against Manchester and currently sit third in the league.

It is all set up for the Rebels to secure a home play-off spot for the first round of play-offs.

Tickets are on sale now for April 25’s game.

Andrea added: “The support made a huge difference and we’ll need that again for the final home game.

“With the play-offs within reach, it’s set up perfectly for a big occasion, and we’re hoping the Colchester crowd comes out in force once more.”