Writtle University College to build first bespoke 3×3 courts in the UK

Writtle University College in Essex is aiming to become a hub of 3×3 basketball activity after revealing plans for 10 bespoke 3×3 basketball courts on campus, the first of its kind facility in the UK.

Hoping to capitalise on 3×3’s inclusion in the Olympics, as well as the upcoming 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, six floodlit courts will be located within the current playing fields, including a centre piece show court designed by artist Molly Hawkins, which hopes to be used for 3×3 events and tournaments.

An additional four courts will be based in the centre of the campus, offering opportunities for 3×3 camps and training. The training courts will have lighting systems in place for evening games. All of the courts will have the latest Mega Slam hoop systems in place, which can be lowered to provide playing opportunities for children.

The new facilities will celebrate their official launch in summer 2021, and will be open to members of the public or clubs via private bookings.

Dr Greg Deacon WUC’s Head of Sport, said: “This is an exciting time for WUC as we boldly move into a modern era for the university and marks a significant evolution of our offering.

“3×3 is a fast-growing, popular sport and we’re proud to create and host the UK’s first ever bespoke 3×3 courts. It’s the first of many fantastic projects and will help us to support students, athletes and the local community by moving towards an inclusive,forward-thinking future.

“3×3 is basketball in its simplest, most inclusive form. By introducing 3×3 at Writtle University College we are not only catering for professional players, but also aim to offer children and young people an easily accessible entry point to the sport.”

BREAKING NEWS! Writtle University College is creating the UK’s first bespoke 3×3 basketball courtshttps://t.co/SVHbD0FS5X pic.twitter.com/evuc2J5RKH

— Writtle Uni College (@WrittleOfficial) March 29, 2021

Martin Dyan, Founder of The GG3x3 tournament worked as Writtle’s 3×3 consultant on the project and said:

“There is an ever increasing demand for 3×3 events and facilities, particularly in the UK. It’s been a pleasure to work with the team at WUC, to support and share its vision for 3×3.

“The sport is growing and we should be investing in it as much as possible. The quality of the offering here at Writtle will set the tone for universities, schools and sporting bodies who want to take part in the growth of the game across the country.”

The project has been driven by Writtle University College’s sports department, which includes Sport Science lecturer Mark Williams, who was previously the GB Senior strength & conditioning coach, and is currently Basketball England’s strength and conditioning lead.

Williams added: “Sport has the potential to increase our wellbeing; whether that’s at a professional or amateur level. My passion lies in creating learning environments for people of all backgrounds and abilities. By supporting the development of people’s sporting performance we also help them to grow in confidence in an inclusive atmosphere. Basketball is about much more than the physical health benefits that can come from being active.”