Ballin’ with a Bobby – Coming to a local park near you!

We are proud to once again team up with Essex Police for the fifth consecutive year of Ballin’ with a Bobby — a free, community-driven basketball initiative designed to keep Colchester’s youth active, engaged, and inspired.

Thanks to the generous sponsorship of the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, this exciting programme is returning bigger and better for summer 2025.

Kicking off on Tuesday, 3 June, these weekly sessions will take place every Tuesday from 4:30pm–5:30pm for primary school children, and 5:30pm–6:30pm for secondary school children. Ballin’ with a Bobby offers young people the opportunity to sharpen their basketball skills, have fun with friends, and interact positively with local police officers — all in a safe, inclusive environment.

The project was first launched by PC Dex Adams of the Colchester Community Policing Team. The aim is to provide a meaningful, engaging alternative to anti-social behaviour during the summer months while building lasting connections between young people and the police through sport.

The impact has already been huge — over the past four summers, more than 550 children have taken part, turning local parks into vibrant hubs of basketball activity and community spirit.

And this year, it all culminates in the Ballin’ with a Bobby Summer Tournament on Saturday, 10th August at the Essex Sport Arena. Up to 120 children will compete in a celebration of teamwork, talent and fun. Every participant will receive a free basketball to take home — helping them to keep playing and developing their skills long after the sessions end.

Essex Rebels are thrilled to be involved once again in this fantastic community project, promoting both sport and social connection across Colchester.

Schedule:

Primary School Ages: 4:30 PM – 5:30 PM  |  Secondary School Ages: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM

Follow us on our socials and check back here for tournament sign-up info coming soon!