Dixon excited to compete with heroes at Commonwealth Games

English diver Matthew Dixon says he is looking forward to competing with his heroes at the Commonwealth Games.

The 17-year-old, from Plymouth, is taking part in his second Commonwealth Games – he finished in ninth position in the 10m Platform in 2014 – and is hoping to improve on that performance on the Gold Coast.

Matthew Dixon
  • Date of Birth: 19/04/2000
  • Club: Plymouth Diving
  • Coach: Sally Freeman
  • CWG: Finished 10th in 10m Platform on debut at Glasgow 2014.

He said: “It feels amazing to be competing for Team England – I’m so proud and honoured.

“I gained a lot of experience at the last Commonwealth Games and hopefully I can step it up at this one and do even better.

“It’s amazing competing with some of the people who are my heroes. They are a big inspiration. They’ve done well at Commonwealth Games, Olympic Games and got gold medals.

“It inspires you to do better and carry on what you love doing and to keep improving.”

Dixon, who will be supported by his mum, dad and sister in Australia, said competing in an outdoor pool has its challenges.

“It’s different,” he said. “I won’t be changing much but your surroundings will always be changing. The sun is always changing so your spots are always going to be changing while you’re in the air.

“That’s one of the things you’ve got to get used to. But it should be good out there.

“I’m obviously looking forward to the sun but also seeing all the team together because we are all like one big family.”

Dixon was one of the stars of Great Britain’s junior squad last season, winning the Group A Platform title at the European Junior Championships.

He also medalled on the senior stage, combining with Noah Williams for 10m Synchro bronze at the European Championships.

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