Eric Soyka, National Parafencing Coach, on the Growth of Parafencing in the US

<p><strong>Season 2, Episode 15</strong><br /><strong>Guest:</strong> <strong>Eric Soyka</strong> — National Parafencing Coach, USA Fencing; Coach at Phoenix Center & Rogue Fencing Academy</p><p><strong>What we cover</strong></p><p>Origin story: two injured athletes, one suggestion—“try parafencing”—and a deep dive into rules, video, and best practices</p><p>How far we’ve come: more media, more youth, and athletes sticking after the Games</p><p>Inside the club: fitting a frame into a small space, building a culture of inclusion, “it’s just fencing (sitting down)”</p><p>Paris 2024 lessons: qualification is the grind; the Games feel like a (very grand) world cup if you stick to process</p><p>Parafencing 101: same tactics, tighter distance, different angles; no passing, constant readiness; what’s <i>actually</i>different—and what isn’t</p><p>Myth-busting & classification: A (more trunk control), B (less), C (arm/hand limitations; worlds only), and why some parafencers can walk</p><p>Build...