Advantages Of Staying In The UK For Studies And Basketball: What's The Deal?

No doubt it would be tempting to pursue an offer of furthering your basketball pursuits with an opportunity to study in the US, however for one British guard, her choice was to stay UK. Her reasons based on gaining valuable experience playing in the Women's British Basketball League (WBBL), specialising in her chosen field of study without the distraction of general education requirements and enjoying flexible training schedules to support both her academic and athletic pursuits.

Introducing…Tia Freeman

Advantages of Staying in the UK for studies and basketball

I always wanted to stay in the UK for my studies rather than taking the alternative route of going to study and play in the U.S. Being able to play in the WBBL from the age of 16 was a key factor in my decision, as well as scholarships on offer at UK universities.

The University of Essex offered a full master's scholarship alongside playing the WBBL and BUCS Premier League. This was a great opportunity and something I wanted to pursue.

Academic Focus and Flexibility

My three years of studying and playing at Essex have been great. In terms of my undergraduate degree, being able to solely focus on one chosen subject rather than taking numerous different classes in the States, was also very appealing.

Studies always remain my number one priority and luckily, I have never really struggled to balance basketball at the same time, due to the flexibility of training and the free access to facilities we have.

Benefits at the University of Essex

The court facilities are amazing. We have access every weekday, whether it's for individual workouts or just wanting to shoot. We have constant access to the gym, as well as team Strength and Conditioning sessions.

Essex has allowed me to complete two master’s degrees in my time and I have been able to play one year as a fully professional player without studying.

Tia is a key member of our professional women's basketball team, the Essex Rebels.

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