Who is Ezra Frech? Ezra Frech is a name that stands for resilience, determination, and inspiration. Born in Los Angeles in May 2005, Ezra faced congenital limb differences from birth, missing his left knee and shinbone and having only one finger on his left hand. Despite these challenges, he received his first prosthetic leg at just 11 months old and underwent surgery at age 2 to improve his mobility. Ezra's journey from a young boy with limb differences to a world-class Paralympian and disability rights advocate is nothing short of extraordinary. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact one individual can make.
Key Takeaways:
- Ezra Frech, born with congenital limb differences, overcame challenges to become a Paralympic athlete, advocate, and philanthropist, promoting inclusivity and inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness.
- With a supportive family, Ezra Frech excelled in sports, founded Angel City Sports, and became a sought-after motivational speaker, proving that "Being Different is OK" and leaving a lasting legacy.
Early Life and Family Background
Ezra Frech's journey began with unique challenges and a supportive family that played a crucial role in his development.
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Birth and Early Life: Born in Los Angeles, California, in May 2005, Ezra entered the world with congenital limb differences. He was missing his left knee and shinbone and had only one finger on his left hand.
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Prosthetic Leg: At just 11 months old, Ezra received his first prosthetic leg, which became a vital part of his daily life and athletic pursuits.
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Surgical Procedures: At age 2, Ezra underwent surgery to remove the curved part of his leg. His toe was transplanted to his left hand to improve the fitting of his prosthetic leg.
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Family Background: Ezra's mother, Bahar Soomekh, is a Persian Jewish actress known for roles in "Crash" and the "Saw" franchise. His father, Clayton Frech, is a business manager who has been pivotal in supporting Ezra's athletic career.
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Family Influence: Bahar Soomekh has emphasized the importance of tikkun olam, or repairing the world, in their family. She aims to bring attention to environmental and children's issues.
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Aunt’s Contribution: Ezra’s aunt, Saba Soomekh, is a Jewish studies scholar focusing on world religions, women and religion, and the geo-politics of the Middle East.
Athletic Beginnings and Achievements
Ezra's involvement in sports from a young age laid the foundation for his remarkable athletic career.
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Early Sports Involvement: Ezra played basketball, baseball, soccer, flag football, skateboarding, karate, surfing, and track and field, contributing to his well-rounded athletic skills.
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Competitive Spirit: From a young age, Ezra was super competitive, always trying to beat his mentor, Pau Gasol, in basketball and shooting games.
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Motivational Speaker: Since age 4, Ezra has been a sought-after motivational speaker, sharing his message that “Being Different is OK” at schools, hospitals, companies, and leadership conferences.
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Angel City Sports: Ezra founded Angel City Sports to provide free year-round access to sports training equipment and competitive opportunities for kids and adults with physical disabilities.
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Angel City Games: Under Angel City Sports, Ezra also founded the Angel City Games, an annual multi-sport competition promoting inclusivity and accessibility in sports.
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Paralympic Experience: Ezra made history as the youngest Para-athlete to compete in the 2019 World Para Athletics Championships. He also participated in the Parapan American Games and the Paris 2023 Para Athletics World Championships, winning gold in the high jump.
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Tokyo 2020 Paralympics: At 16, Ezra qualified for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, placing eighth in the long jump and fifth in the high jump.
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LA28 Creator: As one of the 32 ambassadors for the 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games, Ezra designed his own LA 2028 logo featuring a prosthetic leg.
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Prosthetic Leg Design: Ezra’s prosthetic leg is both functional and stylish. He often wears a wing necklace while competing, showcasing his unique style and confidence.
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Athletic Achievements: Ezra holds dozens of junior national track and field records. He was the starting QB and point guard for his football and basketball teams.
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Sports Illustrated Finalist: In 2014, Ezra was named a finalist for the Sports Illustrated "SportsKid of the Year," highlighting his exceptional athletic abilities.
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Mentorship: Ezra’s mentor, Sam Grewe, won a silver medal in the high jump at the 2016 Rio Paralympics, inspiring Ezra to pursue his Paralympic dreams.
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USC Commitment: Ezra is the first above-the-knee amputee to commit to a Division-I track and field program, choosing USC to change perceptions about athletes with disabilities.
Advocacy and Public Appearances
Ezra's advocacy work and public appearances have made him a beloved figure in the sports community.
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Public Appearances: Ezra has appeared on the Ellen Show, showcasing his charisma and determination.
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Disability Advocacy: Ezra is an outspoken advocate for the disability community, believing in normalizing disability through his advocacy and using sports to promote inclusivity.
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Paralympics 101 Overview: Ezra joined NBC to give a Paralympics 101 overview, explaining his goal to normalize disability and use sports to promote social advancement.
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Team Toyota Partnership: Ezra is part of Team Toyota, supporting his athletic endeavors and disability advocacy.
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Cars and Culture Episode: In a Cars and Culture episode, Ezra discussed his non-profit, Angel City Sports, and his experiences as a Paralympic athlete.
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Life of Significance: Ezra believes in living a life of significance by devoting himself to the betterment of humanity and giving back to people.
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Coach La Tijera Avery: Ezra credits his track and field coach, La Tijera Avery, for embodying the idea of living a life of significance.
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Parental Influence: Ezra’s parents have been instrumental in his life. His father left a corporate job to support him and the disabled community, while his mother left acting to support their family and the organization.
Philanthropy and Future Goals
Ezra's philanthropic work and future aspirations continue to inspire and make a lasting impact.
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Angel City Sports Foundation: Ezra and his father founded Angel City Sports in 2013, providing free year-round access to sports training equipment and competitive opportunities for kids and adults with physical disabilities.
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Team Ezra: Ezra and his family founded Team Ezra in 2006 to provide financial resources to organizations serving people with physical disabilities.
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LA84 Advisory Board: Ezra is a member of LA84’s Student Athletes in Motion, representing LA84’s commitment to sports and civic engagement.
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Paralympic Experience: Ezra has participated in several international events, including the Junior World Para-Athletics Championships and the Para-Pan American Games, winning multiple medals.
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World Championships Performance: At the 2023 World Para Athletics Championships, Ezra won gold in the high jump and placed fourth in the long jump.
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Motivational Message: Ezra’s motivational message is simple yet powerful: “Being Different is OK.” He encourages everyone to embrace their uniqueness and strive to make a positive impact.
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Public Recognition: Ezra has received public recognition for his achievements, including being named a finalist for the Sports Illustrated "SportsKid of the Year."
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Athletic Career: Ezra began competing internationally at 14, becoming one of the youngest and most accomplished Para-athletes in the world.
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Future Goals: Ezra aims to continue competing at the highest level and use his platform to promote inclusivity and accessibility in sports.
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Philanthropic Work: Ezra supports organizations providing resources for people with physical disabilities. His non-profit, Angel City Sports, promotes inclusivity and accessibility in sports.
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Media Appearances: Ezra has appeared on various media platforms, including NBC News and the Ellen Show, raising awareness about disability advocacy.
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Cultural Phenomenon: Ezra is considered a cultural phenomenon due to his positive, inspirational, and driven personality.
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Legacy: Ezra Frech’s legacy extends beyond his athletic achievements. His advocacy and philanthropic work will continue to inspire generations to come.
Ezra Frech: A True Inspiration
Ezra Frech's story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of inclusivity. Born with congenital limb differences, he didn't let that stop him from achieving greatness. From receiving his first prosthetic leg at 11 months old to becoming a Paralympian, Ezra's journey is nothing short of remarkable. His involvement in sports like basketball, soccer, and track and field showcases his versatility and competitive spirit.
Beyond athletics, Ezra's advocacy work through Angel City Sports and his motivational speaking engagements have made a significant impact. He aims to normalize disability and promote inclusivity, using his platform to inspire others. His achievements, from setting junior national records to competing in the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, highlight his exceptional talent and dedication.
Ezra Frech is more than an athlete; he's a symbol of hope and a champion for the disability community. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
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