Stutzman took up archery at the age of 28. His interest in the sport was sparked by his experiences accompanying his father and brother on hunting trips. Despite initial uncertainties about how he would shoot a bow, his genuine interest drove him to explore the possibilities.

Innovative Technique

To compete in archery without arms, Stutzman developed a unique technique. He uses his left foot to place the arrow and holds the bow with his right foot. A contraption attached to his right shoulder allows him to pull back the string, and he releases the arrow by moving his jaw.

Career Highlights

Stutzman made his debut for the United States in 2011. His first Paralympic appearance was at the 2012 Games in London, where he won a silver medal. This achievement marked a turning point in his life, leading to job offers and recognition from his community.

Awards and Recognition

In 2022, Stutzman was named Male Para Archer of the Year by World Archery. This accolade highlights his dedication and skill in the sport. He has also represented the United States in non-Para archery, competing at events like the 2020 Indoor World Series in Las Vegas.

Challenges and Injuries

In 2022, Stutzman began experiencing pain in his right hip. By 2023, he decided to skip indoor tournaments to focus on physiotherapy. Despite these challenges, he continues to train for eight hours a day under the guidance of national coach Jonathan Clemins.

Future Ambitions

Stutzman aims to win gold at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. However, he has hinted that this may be his final appearance at the Games due to ongoing hip issues. He is weighing the possibility of taking a year off before deciding on competing in future events like LA 2028.

Influences and Philosophy

Stutzman's family has been a significant influence on his career. He also looks up to US basketball player Michael Jordan and coach MJ Rogers. His philosophy is simple yet powerful: "Somewhere, someone is training harder than you. What's your excuse?"

Other Interests

Apart from archery, Stutzman has ventured into drag racing since 2012 as an amateur bracket racer. He drives using one foot for steering and another for operating the pedals. His passion for racing stems from childhood dreams of becoming a professional race car driver.

Documentary Appearance

In 2020, Stutzman appeared in 'Rising Phoenix,' a documentary about the Paralympic Games. The film allowed him to showcase his personality and share his story with a broader audience.

As September 2024 approaches, Matt Stutzman's journey continues to inspire many. His innovative techniques and perseverance have made him a standout figure in both archery and drag racing.