Youngsters shoot hoops with police and the Essex Rebels 

Youngsters shot hoops alongside police officers and professional basketball players as the Ballin’ with a Bobby tournament returned to Colchester.

The free event at the University of Essex brought more than 50 children together with neighbourhood police officers and Essex Rebels stars for a day of basketball designed to build positive relationships and help steer young people away from crime and anti-social behaviour.

Held at the Essex Sport Arena, the tournament marked the finale of the sixth year of Ballin’ with a Bobby, which has seen thousands of youngsters play basketball with police officers and professional players since the programme began.

The day was split into two sessions, starting with younger children aged seven to 11.

Alongside basketball games and activities, youngsters were given the chance to sit down with police officers, ask questions and talk to them in an informal setting before splitting into teams and taking to the court.

They were joined by Essex Rebels international players and coaches including Joe Hart, Amba Thompson, Cerys Leach, Tyreese Hudson, and Liv Forster.

Pictures by Sanne Hoffman

The afternoon saw 12 to 18-year-olds take over the arena, with Liv Forster leading fast-paced 3x3 basketball games before youngsters competed in a full tournament alongside members of the Rebels.

Liv Partridge, Sports Development Officer, said: “Days like this show why sport is so special.

“Basketball brings everyone together, but it is the friendships, conversations and connections happening around the court that make the event such a success.

“There was such a positive atmosphere throughout the tournament, and it really showed what Ballin’ with a Bobby is all about.

“I just want to take this chance to thank all the families, children, and police officers who took part. You are all amazing!”

Ballin’ with a Bobby was established by PC Dex Adams, from Colchester Neighbourhood Policing Team, and is delivered in partnership with the Essex Rebels.

PC Adams said: "For young people to meet international standard athletes and professional players is incredible and something they really enjoy.

“It also gives the police a positive place to engage in meaningful conversations with young people about community safety.

"Thank you to the Essex Rebels staff once again and I wish them the best of luck for their season ahead."

The tournament followed free Ballin’ with a Bobby sessions held across Colchester this summer at Lower Castle Park, Old Heath Recreation Ground and Stanway.

The tournament took place weeks before the Essex Rebels’ season launches.

Tickets are on sale on the Essex Rebels website – head there to secure your seats and find out more about the season.