Junior county squad players gain valuable international experience
Stuart Wilkinson, 10U Performance Manager of Middlesex Tennis, gives an update on a recent trip to Poland.
“Middlesex Tennis has recently introduced an exciting new performance initiative aimed at providing county squad players with valuable international experience. Four age groups have been selected as the first beneficiaries of this programme.
Players born in 2015 and 2016 were invited to apply for a subsidised overseas training opportunity. Two additional age groups are set to be offered places later in the year for a TEN PRO overseas tournament experience.
The first group has just returned from a highly successful trip to the Angie Kerber Tennis Academy in Poznań, Poland. The group was accompanied by four Middlesex coaches. 16 players (eight boys and eight girls) aged between 9 and 11 took part in a fully immersive training camp.
The programme was designed to replicate a full-time tennis environment. This helps players develop independence, manage their time effectively, and experience different coaching styles and cultures—both on and off the court.
Programme
Each day followed a structured and intensive schedule:
- 7:30am – Breakfast
- 8:30am – Strength & Conditioning session
- 10:00am – On-court coaching with Polish academy coaches
- 12:30pm – Lunch
- 2:30pm – On-court sessions with Middlesex coaches
Training included a variety of focus areas such as singles and doubles play, matchplay (including filmed matches with coach feedback), repetition and tactical drills, alongside high-energy team games.
Evenings were equally engaging, with team-building activities including quiz nights, games room challenges, “Reaction Olympics,” trips to the local shops, and a memorable talent show.
Players trained across both indoor and outdoor courts. A midweek visit to a local aqua park providing a well-earned break.
For many, this was their first experience travelling without parents. Every player demonstrated impressive maturity, punctuality, and commitment throughout the week.
Feedback
Overall, the trip successfully delivered a high-performance training experience balanced with fun, cultural exposure, and strong team bonding—setting a fantastic benchmark for future international initiatives
Thanks to my fellow coaches Monica Becerra, Natalia Ilkow and James Mott for their help and support on the trip.
If you would like to learn more about the work being undertaken by the Performance Foundation please contact Andrew Lewandowski ???????
