Ezra Frech, a rising star in the world of para-athletics, recently celebrated his 19th birthday and is gearing up for his second Paralympic Games as a member of Team USA. Despite being born with congenital limb differences that include missing most of his left leg and fingers on his left hand, Frech has not let these challenges hold him back. In fact, he has excelled in his athletic pursuits while also making significant contributions to his community and advocating for other para-athletes.
Three years ago, Frech competed in the Tokyo Paralympics and came close to winning a medal in the T63 long and high jump events. Although he fell short on that occasion, he went on to achieve gold at the World Championships in Paris in 2023 and silver in Kobe, Japan, in 2024 in the T63 high jump. As his profile in the para-athletic world continued to grow, Frech used his platform to shine a light on his charitable work.
Frech, along with his family, established Angel City Sports in 2013, a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles that offers adaptive sports opportunities to individuals of all ages with physical disabilities or visual impairments. The organization provides free equipment, coaching, and competitive opportunities to thousands of athletes each year, filling a crucial gap in adaptive sports programming in Southern California.
In a recent interview, Frech emphasized the transformative power of sports in his life and the importance of breaking down barriers that prevent individuals with disabilities from participating in sports. He highlighted the role of mentors and role models in inspiring the next generation of athletes and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve as a hero for young people facing similar challenges.
Beyond his athletic achievements and charitable work, Frech is involved in the P&G Athletes for Good Fund, which recognizes athletes who have made significant contributions to their communities while excelling in their sports. He is one of 20 athletes receiving grants to support their causes. Additionally, Frech is set to be featured in an upcoming documentary titled “Rising Phoenix: A New Revolution,” which aims to showcase the stories of athletes who have overcome adversity to achieve greatness.
As Frech prepares to represent Team USA at the upcoming Paralympic Games and pursue his studies at the University of Southern California, he continues to inspire others through his resilience, passion for sports, and commitment to making a positive impact on the world around him. His dedication to advocacy, philanthropy, and athletic excellence serves as a testament to the power of determination and the ability to effect change in the lives of others.