First Ballin' with a Bobby tournament was 'so special'

More than 100 children enjoyed an incredible basketball tournament which saw police officers join forces with the Essex Rebels.

Players from the University's professional teams joined forces with Essex Police for the first ever Ballin' with a Bobby Tournament.

Colchester's Community Policing Team and University of Essex staff oversaw fun games and activities for more than 100 primary and secondary school aged children.

The free event, hosted at the Essex Sport Arena, also saw medals and lunches awarded to the youngsters.

In addition to the competitive basketball games, where players of all skill levels were, kids took part in safety and awareness activities.

These included "stranger danger" sessions for primary school children and discussions on knife crime, violence, crime for the older attendees.

Organiser Jennifer Stanhope, University Sports Development Officer, said: "Its events like these that make all the hard work worthwhile, seeing the children connect, building their confidence, and developing a sense of belonging through sport is incredibly rewarding.

"Watching the children grow not just as players, but as individuals who feel supported and valued by their community, is what make this initiative so special.

"I'm also immensely proud of the player-coaches Cam, Ben, Megan, Jordan, and Tyreese. They dedicated their time and expertise to inspire the next generation and we deeply appreciate the support of the Essex Police officers."

'Great achievement'

Her feelings were echoed by PC Dex Adams, who launched Ballin' with a Bobby four years ago.

PC Adams said: "Ballin' with a Bobby has grown year after year and to finalise this summer's activity with the tournament was a great achievement.

"To bring over 100 children from the area together, to play in one of the best facilities in the country and get to know the players they can watch play on a weekend, is really inspiring for them.

"It is a great opportunity to talk about topics such as knife crime and stop and search in a controlled and respectable environment while teaching and encouraging healthy habits and divert young people away from negative behaviours."

The tournament was funded by Active Essex.