Hundreds dive into Mirada Lagoon for Special Olympics Florida’s Polar Plunge
SAN ANTONIO, Fla. (WFLA) — Hundreds of people jumped into the chilly waters of the Mirada Lagoon Sunday morning, participating in Special Olympics Florida’s Polar Plunge.
“It really brings the community out to support the athletes of Special Olympics Florida,” said Linsey Smith, Chief Development & Marketing Officer. “We’re now serving over 70,000 athletes across the state.”
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The plunge raised over $80,000 for the organization, and the water temperature of 69 degrees only made the participants that much colder.
“Every time that we can have the community out and really engage with our athletes,” explained Smith. “To be able to hear their stories and to see that they are no different, that they want to have fun, they want to also jump into the freezing cold waters of Mirada Lagoon.”
The organization provides free year-round sports training and competition, critical health services, and leadership development for its athletes, like Paige Kroupa.
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“I was looking for a social outlet,” Kroupa recalled. “Then I discovered Special Olympics and athlete leadership, and it was a game-changer.”
Kroupa said she raised nearly $8,000 for the Polar Plunge. She plays volleyball, bowling, and golf and coaches sports as well.
“I got to be able to do sports and I also got to be able to help the program and give speeches,” Kroupa said. “You build your network and it helps fundraising.”
Special Olympics Florida is also looking for coaches. You can learn more and sign up here.
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