About
Based at the University of Essex, the Essex Rebels is a basketball end-to-end programme that encompasses a full pathway from senior professional teams through to the Rebels Roadshow schools outreach programme.
The Rebel way.
Home to the curious, brave and bold, at the University of Essex, where exploring new ways of thinking and pushing boundaries isn’t just encouraged, it’s expected.
Committed to excellence in everything we do, at the heart of our activities is supporting young people to achieve their full potential in their academic and sporting pursuits within our dual-career pathway.
What makes a Rebel.
The name of the Essex Rebels reflects the history of both the University of Essex and the town of Colchester in which the University resides. Students at the University have been known for their political activism throughout its history, reflected in the strapline of ‘Rebels with a Cause’ used today.
Colchester is also the site of the most celebrated act of rebellion in British history, when Queen Boudicca led the Celtic tribes of East Anglia to defeat the Romans.
Rebels on tour.
A wide range of children’s and schools activities are delivered within the Rebels programme. This includes the Rebels Roadshow, which visits primary and secondary schools in Colchester and Tendring, with players delivering school assemblies and P.E. sessions. The Rebels ‘Reach’ programme works with secondary schools across Essex, to engage students through basketball and help them to recognise higher education as a viable pathway for them. Younger children from age 5 and up can attend our Rebels ‘Slam Jam’ sessions taking place at the Essex Sport Arena on Saturday mornings, as well as attend our popular basketball holiday camps.
Sports scholarships.
The University of Essex offers sports scholarships to talented basketball players studying for both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. A full support package encompassing daily on-court coaching, strength and conditioning coaching, lifestyle advice, sports science testing, and support and advice in areas such as psychology and nutrition.
The University of Essex is also a Sport England Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme centre, and is an accredited dual-career site, supporting young athletes in their academic and sporting development.
For more information please contact Susy Davies, Performance Sport Manager.
Email: [email protected]
Upcoming matches & events
JERSEY NIGHT: Essex Rebels Women vs Oaklands Wolves & Essex Rebels Men vs Newcastle Knights
Rep your favourite Jersey at our JERSEY NIGHT!
Celebrate Jersey Night with an action-packed Essex Rebels basketball doubleheader. The Women’s team tip off against the Oaklands Wolves at 4:00 PM, followed by the Men’s match against the Newcastle Knights at 6:30 PM.
In addition to two exciting games, Jersey Night features:
- Rebels’ jersey giveaway for the best-dressed fan
- Performances from Ignite Cheer and more
- Crowd games and in-arena competitions
- Kids’ jersey-design contest, with the winning design receiving a Hoopin’N’Lootin jersey
- Special appearance from Hoopin’N’Lootin, with the chance to shop NBA jerseys
Join us for big games, big atmosphere, and big prizes—and don’t forget to wear your favourite jersey!
CHRISTMAS SPECIAL: Essex Rebels Women vs B. Braun Sheffield Hatters & Essex Rebels Men vs Nottingham Hoods
Get into the Festive Spirit at the Rebels Christmas Special!
Celebrate the season with the Essex Rebels at the Essex Sport Arena for a basketball doubleheader and festive fun on Saturday, 13th December!
- Women’s Game: Essex Rebels vs B. Braun Sheffield Hatters – 4:00pm
- Men’s Game: Essex Rebels vs Nottingham Hoods – 6.30pm
The day kicks off at 2:00pm with our Mini Christmas Market outside the arena:
- Mulled Wine & Hot Chocolate
- Festive BBQ, Hot Dogs & Snacks
- Live Carol Singers
- Festive Photo Van – Family & Group Pics
- Christmas Turkey Orders & Holiday Meal Bookings
- Concierge Service: Gifts for Every Budget
- Wivenhoe House Hotel Pop-Up & more
We’re also running a Toy Drive for the Colchester & Ipswich Hospital Charity. Bring a gift to help brighten the holidays for children and older patients or donate online via the Amazon Wishlist
A day of basketball, festive treats, live music, and giving back—perfect for families, friends, and fans of all ages. Don’t miss it!
Don’t miss our next big game
Come and see fast-paced, action-packed, top-level professional basketball in a first-class venue. Match days offer family-friendly entertainment including a DJ, big screen, cheerleaders, interactive competitions, children’s activities, refreshments, and our larger-than-life mascot, Queen B.
We Are Rebels – come join the rebellion!