Gamecocks took to the Wellness and Fitness Center pool to plunge for a purpose on Feb. 15, raising a record-breaking amount for Special Olympics South Carolina during this year's Gamecock Polar Plunge.
The plunge, delayed from its original Feb. 1 date due to inclement weather, took place in the WFC outdoor pool and once again featured a costume contest. This year marks the second year in a row that USC Campus Recreation, in partnership with USC Police Department and Law Enforcement Torch Run, has hosted the polar plunge after several years sponsoring the event off-campus.
Nearly 20 teams came together to raise more than $22,000 to support Special Olympics athletes, proudly exceeding their intended goal by over 100% and setting a record for the most successful plunge at USC under organizers Mike Still and Lt. Chris Thompson. All funds raised directly benefit athlete programs in South Carolina, by creating more opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities – at no cost to themselves or their families.
“Fundraisers like the Gamecock Polar Plunge are extremely important to the mission of Special Olympics South Carolina. The Law Enforcement Torch Run polar plunge organized by USC PD and the 11 others around South Carolina provide opportunities for over 30,000 individuals with intellectual disabilities to participate in over 26 sports year-round. It also provides social and life skills and champions acceptance and inclusion. 100% of all proceeds raised by LETR go directly to athlete funds providing these opportunities," says Sill, who serves as the Law Enforcement Torch Run Liaison with Special Olympics South Carolina.
This event embodies the values of the Division of Student Affairs and Academic Support at USC, fostering community and creating a sense of belonging. Gamecocks of all ages, including representatives from five local schools and three more law enforcement agencies joined 10+ USC campus partners for the plunge. Crayton Middle School led the way for all teams, raising $6,900, while USC's Sigma Psi Mu chapter raised $4,300.
According to Still, at least five Special Olympics families were onsite to receive the funding and celebrate the exciting day with USC's partners. Campus Recreation, USC PD and LETR plan to continue holding this event on campus in the coming years.