Polar Plunge

Taking the Polar Plunge with Special Olympics Kansas supports over 5,500 athletes.

Special Olympics Kansas is dedicated to empowering individuals with intellectual disabilities to become physically fit, productive, and respected members of society through sports competitions, health and nutrition programs, and leadership development.

There is something about the thrill of competition. The sweat, the hustle, the effort that comes with doing your best. The joy of victory, the challenge of falling behind, the support of a team and the encouragement of a cheering crowd. Behind it all – there is achievement.

Together, we achieve. Thank you for being part of our One Team.

Locations

Join us for the COOLEST event of the year! Organize a team of your friends, co-workers, family, or choose to go solo. Every dollar raised will go towards Special Olympics programming to support over 5,500 Special Olympics athletes in the state of Kansas. Your contribution and involvement helps athletes achieve their goals on & off the field, have healthier lifestyles, and a sense of inclusion in their community. If you cannot take the Plunge, but want to support – you can make a donation, volunteer your time, or come out to support others!

Emporia

February 15, 2025

Hutchinson

March 29, 2025

Kansas City

February 22, 2025

Lawrence

February 22, 2025

Maize

February 22, 2025

Manhattan

February 15, 2025

McPherson

March 27, 2025

Pittsburg

February 8, 2025

Topeka

February 8, 2025

Meet Scott Ball

Scott Ball has been a Special Olympics athlete for 25 years! As a proud member of the New Hope Bulldogs in Pittsburg, he has participated in snowshoe, powerlifting, flag football, basketball, bowling, bocce, golf, soccer, and softball. His favorite sports are bowling and bocce.

Scott’s favorite part of Special Olympics Kansas is the community and being with other people that have intellectual disabilities. “Special Olympics has helped me find my place in life,” says Scott. “I’ve found people that are completely accepting of me.”

Outside of sports, Scott likes to crochet, watch movies, travel, dance, sing karaoke, and go out to eat with his old classmates.

His advice to others is: “Keep up the spirit, make sure you have friends close and look good everyday!”

Scott is known for his participation in the Polar Plunge every year! His 2025 goal is $3,000.

Freezin' For A Reason

Find out your ROI (Return on Inclusion) with Special Olympics Kansas! Our partnership means athletes will get the opportunity to experience the power of inclusion, feel the joy of sports, and succeed on and off the field. Multiple sponsorship options available. Please contact Jake LaMunyon to partner.

Shared Revenue

Special Olympics Kansas is pleased to offer the opportunity to partner with local non-profits, churches, and school groups through the Polar Plunge®! Register a team, fill out the forms, and raise money. We will share a portion of the funds that your team raises online with your group!

"I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support and enthusiasm year after year. Your courage to take the plunge—literally—helps fuel the dreams of our incredible athletes. Truly inspiring."

- John Lair, CEO & President of Special Olympics Kansas

NEW Mobile Plunge Trailer

We’re excited to introduce our brand-new Mobile Plunge Trailer, designed to bring the Polar Plunge to cities across Kansas with ease!

Used for the very first time last year, this state-of-the-art mobile trailer allows us to host Polar Plunge events anywhere. This makes it easier for communities to participate and support Special Olympics Kansas athletes.

We are thankful for local fire departments that fill the trailer with clean freezin’ cold water. Instead of running into a frozen lake, participants can fully take a plunge! Be careful – this has a splash zone!

This addition has helped us host Cool School Plunges across the state as well, allowing for high school students, Unified partners, and staff to participate. Please contact Jake LaMunyon if your school is ready to take the plunge.

Get ready to make an impact this winter, no matter where you are!

I plunge for my brother, Zeke. He has Cerebral Palsy and Special Olympics Kansas has provided him the opportunities to participate in activities and sports to make connections, exercise, and feel included.

The Special Olympics community is one of genuine kindness and selflessness. It's truly a blessing and honor for me to be able to spend time with them at the Polar Plunge and other events throughout the year!

I plunge because I want to make a positive difference in everyone's life. The plunge gives the people watching joy and laughter. The money raised goes to create more opportunities for athletes. My short moment of discomfort is worth all the smiles.