British No.6 Mimi Xu inspires children at LTA Tennis Foundation funded programme
• 2 minute read
Up and coming British player Mimi Xu recently took time out of her training schedule to volunteer with one of the LTA Tennis Foundation’s funded partners - Rackets Cubed.
Rackets Cubed is a community tennis initiative that works with primary schools to support Key Stage 2 children living in some of the country’s most underserved areas. Their model combines three pillars:
- Racket sports
- STEM education
- Nutrition
All of which help children become happier, healthier, and more confident.
During her visit, Mimi Xu spent time on court with the group, getting involved in the drills, sharing tips and creating plenty of fun, high‑energy moments. Speaking about the session, Coach Metro, who leads the tennis activities, said: “It is all about making the sessions fun and engaging for these kids, laying the groundwork for essential life skills without them even realising. It was fantastic having Mimi on court, the kids loved it!”
Mimi then joined the children for the STEM element of the programme, seeing first-hand how the classroom activities build curiosity, problem‑solving skills and confidence off the court.
A key part of every Rackets Cubed session is the group sharing a meal together- something not all families are able to do regularly. Mimi sat with the children and staff, learning how this simple but powerful moment helps build connection, routine, and wellbeing.
When asked why she wanted to volunteer her time, Mimi said: “I am just keen to learn more about what the LTA Tennis Foundation does and see the type of programmes happening in the community. I got into tennis after a school trip to Swansea Tennis Centre, and that visit changed my life, so it is great to be able to see the same type of programme in action now. I loved the visit; it was so great getting involved and meeting the kids”.
Her visit had a clear and immediate impact on the children involved. One child said: “It was great playing with Mimi, I liked it when I got to partner with her”, another added, “It was so fun!”
Justine Hebert, Interim CEO of Rackets Cubed, said, "Mimi attending the session was incredible. Part of the philosophy of the Rackets Cubed programme is that it is aspirational and inspirational for the children. Someone like Mimi, not that much older than them, can share her journey, and help them to see what hard work and commitment can do. It gives them an understanding that if they work hard and focus, what they can achieve – it’s within their reach.”
I got into tennis after a school trip to Swansea Tennis Centre, and that visit changed my life, so it is great to be able to see the same type of programme in action now.
Tom Gibbins, Head of the LTA Tennis Foundation, added: “It’s fantastic to see British players volunteering their time at the programmes and projects supported by the LTA Tennis Foundation. Grassroots sport plays such an important role in helping young people develop, grow and fulfil their potential. Mimi’s visit will have a deeper impact than she probably realises, moments like this stay with young people and can genuinely change the course of their lives. We’re hugely grateful to her for giving up her time.”
The LTA Tennis Foundation has supported Rackets Cubed through its Grant Making Programme since 2023. Thanks to this funding, the charity has been able to:
- Work with more than 1,100 children
- Deliver over 1,100 sessions
- Partner with 15 schools across Britain
This support is helping more young people access the combined benefits of tennis, education, and nutrition, ensuring they have the opportunity to thrive both on and off the court.
