Rackets Cubed has been named as the official charity of the 2023 LTA Ilkley Trophy taking place next month.
The international grass court tennis tournament serves as a warm-up for Wimbledon and will be held at Ilkley Lawn Tennis and Squash Club (ILTSC) from 17-24 June.
The Ilkley Trophy, affectionately known as the ‘Wimbledon of the North’, made a successful return to Yorkshire last year after a two-year break following the COVID pandemic. The tournament reclaimed its place as one of the biggest weeks in West Yorkshire’s summer social and sporting calendar.
It was a sun-soaked week at the very picturesque Ilkley Lawn Tennis and Squash Club, which is flanked by the stunning natural beauty of the Yorkshire Moors despite being just a short train ride from Leeds city centre. Locals and tennis fans from across the region flocked to be entertained by a stellar player line-up including international stars such as former Wimbledon doubles champion Jack Sock, former Australian Open and Roland Garros doubles champion Kristina Mladenovic, as well as British fan favourites like last year's Ilkley Trophy women's singles runner-up Jodie Burrage.
Ilkley Lawn Tennis and Squash Club (ILTSC) has chosen Rackets Cubed as the 2023 Official Charity because of the charity’s ground-breaking work helping primary school aged children in underserved areas - providing them with key benefits of active participation in sport, enhanced education and a healthy diet. The charity runs integrated racket sports, STEM education and nutrition programmes as part of weekly after-school sessions, all delivered at an aspirational host site.
“We’ve seen the work that Rackets Cubed has done in the local area and we are proud to host one of their programmes at the club. We have been really impressed by their commitment to helping children from really tough backgrounds,” said Rik Smith, ILTSC Chairman. “We believe that tennis is for everyone and Rackets Cubed does incredible work in making that a reality for kids across Yorkshire. We’re proud to support them.”
Rackets Cubed is already delivering programmes across Yorkshire in the following locations:
-
Chapel Allerton in Leeds (Alder Tree Primary)
-
Bradford University (Bowling Park Primary)
-
Bradford Grammar School (Atlas Community Primary)
-
York St John University (Haxby Road Primary)
-
Ilkley LTSC (Riddlesden St Marys Primary)
-
Queens Sports Club in Halifax (Warley Road Primary)
-
Woodford Leisure Centre in Hull (Southcoates Primary)
“As President of Rackets Cubed, and by coincidence of timing, also President of Yorkshire Tennis, I am doubly proud that Rackets Cubed is the chosen charity of such a prestigious event.The values and objectives of Rackets Cubed are shared by ILTSC and we have established a great partnership helping young children from underserved communities in Bradford, which we look forward to developing further in the future.” said Geoff Newton, President, Rackets Cubed
During the LTA Ilkley Trophy people will be able to learn more about the charity by visiting the Rackets Cubed stand. There will be opportunities to donate through a QR code as well as fundraising raffles to win prizes throughout the event.
Tickets are on sale now for the Ilkley Trophy. Centre Court seating and General Admission prices start from as little as £13 per adult and £7 for children for a full day of world-class tennis and great food and drink. Admission to the qualifying events on Saturday 17 June is free of charge.
Skipton event planned for private landlords
World-class tennis returns with Ilkley Trophy
Exploring Ilkley Moor: Free guided walks and educational events
Young BGT magician includes Ilkley in tour
Ilkley's newly elected Deputy and Town Mayor
Company behind Skipton food and drink festival ceases trading
Residents spring into action for a fairer deal for Ilkley District
District's first average speed cameras installed on A650
Group that helps people connect with nature to get new home in park building
What are the top priorities for Ilkley? Share your thoughts in the community consultation
Nick Hancock returns to breakfast radio in Skipton and Ilkley
Silsden store supports local NHS Charity at fashion show fundraiser
Leading environmentalist tells Ilkley to get real about climate crisis
Local Pride groups receive new patron
Outside the Box hosts ‘Thank You’ EP launch
Silsden quarry blocked after Planning Inspector rejects appeal
Friends of Ilkley Railway Station share results of public consultation
Grade II listed structure at Keighley station needs urgent repairs
The Hive to host Silsden community fun day
18 local businesses compete in 5-a-side event
