Two-time WPA Heyball Parasport World Champion Hydred Goldberg joins Legends of the Cue to begin an extraordinary life story that stretches from London and the Philippines to California—and eventually to the top of international wheelchair pool.

Hydred sits down with hosts Allison Fisher, Mark Wilson and Mike Gonzalez just months after surrendering the world title she had held since the inaugural WPA Parasport Heyball Championship in 2024. She reflects on the pressure of defending a world championship, her evolving rivalry and friendship with Switzerland’s Catherine Schneeberger, and the unexpected attention that followed becoming the first woman to win the title.

Then we go back to the beginning.

Born and raised in London to Filipino parents, Hydred recalls childhood at the “Orchard Bungalow,” growing up as the eldest in a large family, Filipino food, festivals and traditions, her early love of art and music, and moving to Northern California as a teenager. She also discusses what it meant to grow up feeling connected to three different places—England, America and the Philippines.

Everything changed on August 10, 1993, just days after Hydred’s 18th birthday. A catastrophic automobile accident left her paralyzed. Hydred recounts the crash, months of hospitalization and rehabilitation, receiving her first wheelchair, and the long emotional journey from denial toward accepting a radically different life.

She also contrasts her experience of acquired disability with that of fellow wheelchair pool champion Henrik Larsson, who has used a wheelchair since infancy.

This first chapter is not yet the story of a world champion. It is the story of the young woman who would eventually become one.

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Music by Lyrium.

About

"Legends of the Cue" is a cue sports history podcast featuring interviews with Hall of Fame members, world champions, and influential figures from across the world of cue sports—including pocket billiards, snooker, and carom disciplines such as three-cushion billiards. We highlight the people, places, and moments that have shaped the game—celebrating iconic players, memorable events, historic venues, and the brands that helped define generations of play. With a focus on the positive spirit of the sport, our goal is to create a rich, engaging, and timeless archive of stories that fans can enjoy now and for years to come.

Co-hosted by WPA and BCA Hall of Fame member Allison Fisher and Mosconi Cup player and captain Mark Wilson, Legends of the Cue brings these stories to life—told in the voices of the game’s greatest figures.

Join Allison, Mark and Mike Gonzalez for “Legends of the Cu...