UD students, faculty, staff take the plunge

1:36 p.m., Feb. 12, 2004--UD students, faculty and staff were saluted by Special Olympics Delaware for their participation in the organization’s annual Polar Bear Plunge, held Sunday, Feb. 1, in Rehoboth Beach.

“UD was a big part of the plunge, with a number of students, faculty and staff,” Heather Hirschman, director of public relations for Special Olympics Delaware, said.

“We would like to thank Jim Grimes, senior associate director of public safety, and the members of UDECU [University of Delaware Emergency Care Unit], who helped provide logistical support, including lifeguards. We also want to thank the members of the entire UD community, who support us in everything we do here at Special Olympics Delaware,” she said.

For first-time plunge participant Matt Robinson, assistant professor of health and exercise sciences, taking the plunge was not as bad as dealing with the frigid air on a shoreline that is a favorite summer spot for swimming, sunbathing and surfing.

“Going into the water is not as bad as coming out, because you are only in there for about five or 10 seconds,” Robinson said. “You are really happy to be a part of this because it is such a great cause. I’m looking forward to doing this again next year.”

Participants contribute a minimum of $50 each in pledges and donations. Proceeds benefit the organization’s year-round program of sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with mental retardation and other cognitive delays.

This year’s plunge raised more than $330,000 as participants braved the second-coldest water temperature in the event’s 13-year history.

Article by Jerry Rhodes

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