Millfield student secures spot at Junior Wimbledon

Upper Sixth Millfield student Joshua Craze has secured himself a wildcard spot at Junior Wimbledon after reaching the final of the 18U boys singles at the LTA National Championships.

Joshua will make up one of 64 players in the main draw of the Wimbledon Boys Singles event, which will comprise the best players in the world for his age group. Achieving the wildcard into the main draw means Josh skips through qualifying rounds.

Since joining Millfield Prep in Year 8, Joshua has demonstrated outstanding commitment and continuous development. His recent success reflects the dedication and discipline he consistently brings to his training.

Reflecting on his success, Joshua said “Making it to the finals was a massive milestone, it showed all my hard work is paying off. Wimbledon has always been one of my biggest goals, I’ve grown up watching it and I’m looking forward to playing.”

Wimbledon is one of tennis’ four ‘Grand Slam’ events, alongside the French Open, Australian Open and US Open.

Joshua, who is from Exeter, began playing tennis at the age of three in Devon at his local club. Now in Upper Sixth he balances an intensive training plan, training six days a week alongside strength and conditioning sessions, with his academics. He says, “I manage my time well and I’ve got understanding teachers who help me balance my commitments.”

Lauren English, Head of Tennis at Millfield, said: “Josh’s achievement of reaching the Boys’ Singles final at the LTA 18U Junior National Championships is a remarkable milestone on the biggest stage in British junior tennis, and earning a Wimbledon 2026 Boys’ Singles main draw wild card is a fitting reward. This success is a testament to his hard work, commitment and resilience throughout his journey, and is also a reflection of the strength and depth of the Millfield tennis programme. It further highlights the outstanding partnership he has built with the Millfield coaching team, founded on trust and mutual respect.”

Talking about the tennis programme, Joshua said: “My favourite part is the environment, we have loads of top coaches and players so we can all push each other, and the facilities are amazing as well.”

Joshua will depart Millfield at the end of this academic year to attend University of The Pacific, where he will compete in the NCAA Division 1 Conference, the strongest level of college tennis in the US. Looking ahead, he hopes to play in professional tournaments whilst he is there and hopefully transition into the professional game.