Coach Angel

DeAngelique ‘Angel’ Waithe has played for the Essex Rebels for three seasons. Two of them as a professional athlete in the Women’s British Basketball League (WBBL), after completing her Masters in Sports and Exercise Science with the university.

Being involved with the schools engagement programme has had a big impact on Angel, herself, too.

“I’m constantly amazed and intrigued. You walk into the room and you either see a lot of children who look like you, or you don’t. You wonder how you’re going to connect and if you can at all. But the best part is always our presentation and the question and answer session that follows it,” says Angel.

“It always gets them going and engaged and they’re so interested in us as people – and ask about me, about studying, playing and being able to do that professionally, and not having to pick one over the other,” she adds.

“We explain it’s something they can do too and, in fact, if there’s something you want, then you can achieve it. Whether that’s sport, being part of a team, staying in school, or anything in life”, says Angel.

“I will keep playing but when… if… I ever hang up my shoes, it’s made me want to coach and inspire kids,” adds Angel. 

Given the university is one of the top three in the UK when it comes to its proportion of international students, this digital presence brought the club to new audiences globally.

“We suddenly had a fanbase that was all over the world, joining our matches online, at all manner of day and night wherever they were, to support their loved ones here in the UK playing for the Rebels. A community far beyond our arena and university,” says Simon.

“We still stream our matches online, but now spectators are allowed and restrictions are continuing to ease, crowds are growing week on week."

“There’s nothing like being there, in the arena, on match-day. We have kiss-cam and mascots, our ‘hype’ guy and DJ – who became commentators when we took things online – make it an atmosphere unlike any other. With our food stands and of course the basketball – it’s a family day out, that’s nurturing, safe and terrific fun.”

You can find out more about Essex Rebels online, including how to attend match days or watch games streamed live.