Coach T not surprised by Dambile’s Commonwealth Games selection

Dambile received one of the loudest cheers when the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (SASCOC) announced the squad of 112 athletes for the Games, which will be held in Glasgow from 23 July to 2 August.

The 24-year-old has enjoyed the best season of his career, breaking the South African 150m record and claiming a memorable Diamond League victory in Oslo. 

His outstanding form has made him one of the country's strongest medal hopes.

"I'm not surprised at all because remember this boy has been my son for a long time - since he was 14 years old. I know him very well and I know how to work with his emotions when he is down, and I know how to work with his body because he's had a lot of challenges in the past before."

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While Dambile is receiving plenty of attention after his impressive performances, Matebedi says he has no concerns about the sprinter losing focus.

Instead, the coach wants Dambile to start preparing for life after athletics by making smart decisions while he is still competing at the highest level. 

Matebedi played a key role in helping Dambile rebuild his career and return to the level that made him one of South Africa's brightest junior talents.

The coach believes Dambile's success is proof that athletes need time and patience to develop. 

He says too many talented youngsters are written off before they are given the opportunity to mature into successful senior competitors.

Now back to his best, Dambile heads to Glasgow as a genuine medal contender in the 200m.