Looking back on a memorable summer of sport and the Commonwealth Games, we celebrate super heavyweight boxer Damar Thomas, who achieved the incredible feat of winning gold in Glasgow.
Just four months before the Games, Damar sustained a significant injury while competing at the 77th Strandja International Boxing Tournament in Bulgaria. Following his injury, he began a period of rehabilitation at ISEH, working with Professor Mike Loosemore and David Bartlett as he prepared to return to boxing.
We recently caught up with Damar to congratulate him on winning gold and hear more about the remarkable recovery that took him all the way to the top of the Commonwealth Games podium.
Damar had known Prof. Mike Loosemore for around three and a half years through GB Boxing. Following his injury, he spent around three months attending ISEH while working towards a return to training in Sheffield.
Reflecting on that period, Damar described the injury as a difficult setback and spoke about the importance of having the right support as he gradually returned to boxing.
“I got back to training as safely and quickly as possible in Sheffield for preparations for the Games. When I got back into the ring, it was like I’d never left.”
Damar’s rehabilitation
As part of his assessment and rehabilitation, Damar underwent a range of tests and therapies, including:
- Eye-tracking assessment using NeuroFlex
- Balance and postural sway assessment using VALD Force Plates,
- Neck movement and proprioception assessment using HeadX and Specialised vestibular-ocular rehabilitation therapy
Four months after sustaining his injury, Damar went on to compete at the Games won gold.
His journey highlights the demands of recovering from a significant injury at an elite level, as well as the importance of a carefully managed return to training and competition.
We congratulate Damar on his incredible achievement and wish him well and great success as he continues his boxing career.
