Performance
We are proud – and genuinely excited – to launch the Middlesex Tennis Performance Foundation, a bold step forward in our mission to support high-potential players on their journey to national and international tennis success.
In the last 18 months Middlesex Tennis has enjoyed some outstanding successes. Mika Stojsavjlevic made history as our first US Open 18U Junior Champion, finishing the year ranked No. 4 in the world. Lily Mills represented Great Britain at the Australian Open, and Middlesex juniors excelled across the pathway – from Tennis Europe events, to ITFs, and Junior Wimbledon selections. These results reflect the growing strength of our performance structure – and we believe the future is even brighter.
The Programme
The programme aims to support the growing financial demands at each tier of the pathway and will specifically target players with the greatest need.
Performance support packages will be offered to players in the following three categories:
For Players who are already competing at Regional and National level.
Junior Awards (born 2008–2014):
- GB national ranking:
- Top 20 = Tier 1 Award
- Top 50 = Tier 2 Award
- Demonstrable track record representing Middlesex Tennis in LTA County Cups over the past three years
- High-quality programme in place, with clear evidence of balanced tennis and fitness hours
- A detailed competition plan with clear objectives
- Significant weighting will be given to special needs and/or hardship
- Young Adults who are competing at international level
Young Adult Awards (born 2003–2007):
- Demonstrable track record representing Middlesex Tennis in Adult LTA County Week or Winter County Cup
- Actively competing in internationally recognised competitions (e.g. ITF, ATP, WTA)
- A detailed competition plan with performance objectives
Note: This category will open in a future application round.
Disability and Inclusive Tennis Athletes (all ages):
- Regularly competing within their specific classification
- Showing developing success at regional and national level, with international potential
- A strong training programme, as assessed by the Middlesex Tennis Inclusion Adviser
The programme will operate across a three-year cycle, with annual reviews based on an objective and key result (OKR) process.
The Offer
Players selected for the Middlesex Tennis Performance Foundation will receive a financial grant to help offset programme costs and, in addition, access a range of performance support services, including:
- Racket and clothing support through our named equipment supplier
- Strength & Conditioning (S&C) guidance from internationally recognised experts
- Sports Psychology support
- Parental guidance (for younger players) on programme planning and wellbeing
- Heavily subsidised access to all appropriate stages of the Middlesex County Training Programme
Selection Criteria
Applications for entry onto the programme open on 1st September 2025, with a biannual selection cycle:
- September–October
- March–April
This allows players additional opportunities to meet the performance criteria.
The number of awards and grants will depend on the resources available during each granting period and is therefore subject to change.
For the September 2025 application window, entries will be open to:
- Junior players (18U to 12U)
- Disability and Inclusion athletes
Applications will be submitted via the Middlesex Tennis website portal (link and details to follow).
FAQ
Who can apply to the Performance Foundation?
The Foundation is open to junior players (born 2008–2014), disability and inclusive athletes of all ages, and – in future rounds – young adult players (born 2003-2007) competing internationally. Please refer to the Eligibility Criteria section for full details.
When do applications open?
The first application window opens in September 2025, with a second round in March 2026. Each window will remain open for approximately one month.
What support does the Foundation offer?
Successful applicants will receive:
- Financial grants to help with tennis-related expenses
- Equipment support via our racket/clothing partner
- Strength & conditioning and sports psychology support
- Parental guidance (for younger players)
- Subsidised Middlesex County Training opportunities
Is financial need considered?
Yes. Hardship or special circumstances are a key part of the decision-making process. The aim is to remove barriers for talented players who may otherwise struggle to access high-performance opportunities.
What are the performance requirements for junior applicants?
Applicants should be competing at regional or national level.
- Top 20 GB ranking qualifies for Tier 1 awards
- Top 50 GB ranking qualifies for Tier 2 awards
Applicants must also demonstrate commitment through training and competitive planning and will be asked to submit this information as part of the application process. Players must also be able to demonstrate a strong track record of representing Middlesex Tennis Teams at LTA County Cup competitions and make themselves available for selection as a grantee whenever possible.
Can I apply if I don’t meet the ranking requirement but have strong potential or hardship?
We encourage applications from players who may not currently meet the ranking threshold but can show commitment, structured training, and performance potential. All applications will be assessed holistically.
I’m a young adult player - when can I apply?
The young adult category (born 2003-2007) is not included in the first round of applications (September 2025). This category will open in a future cycle. Please check back for updates.
How long does the support last?
Support is offered as part of a three-year pathway, with performance and engagement reviewed annually against clear objectives. Continued support depends on meeting agreed development milestones. Tier 2 awards are offered for 1 year.
How many grants will be awarded?
There are different tiers of awards. The number of awards and level of funding will depend on the Foundation’s available resources in each application cycle.
How do I apply?
Applications must be submitted through the Middlesex Tennis website portal. The link will be available once applications open. You will need to submit player details, supporting evidence (rankings, competition plan, etc.), and (if relevant) information about financial need.