Polar Plunge

BEAR THE COLD

BUILD CHAMPIONS

YOU PLUNGE, I PLAY

Your 15 seconds of plunging creates a lifetime of opportunities for thousands of athletes in Kansas to show the world what’s possible.

Our vision is an inclusive world for all, driven by the power of sport, through which people with intellectual disabilities live active, healthy, and fulfilling lives. Special Olympics is the only global sports movement led by people with intellectual disabilities. Every day around the world, our athletes show the world that sport is a force for justice for people of all abilities. We demand dignity. We reject low expectations. We transform bias into belief.

Everyone belongs at Special Olympics.

LOCATIONS

Find out why Kansas is freezin’ for a reason! 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 athletes by providing them a space to practice and compete, have healthier lifestyles, and a sense of belonging 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!

AGGIEVILLE

February 26, 2027

EMPORIA

February 20, 2027

HUTCHINSON

February 6, 2027

KANSAS CITY

February 27, 2027

LAWRENCE

March 5, 2027

PITTSBURG

February 13, 2027

MANHATTAN

February 27, 2027

SALINA

February 13, 20267

TOPEKA

February 20, 2027

WICHITA

February 20, 2027

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 2027 goal is $3,000.

FIND YOUR ROI

Find out your ROI (Return on Inclusion) could be with Special Olympics Kansas! A partnership with SOKS means athletes will get the opportunity to experience the joy of sports, free health screenings, 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!

"Your courage to take the plunge helps fuel the dreams of our incredible athletes. It's truly inspiring."

- John Lair, CEO & President of Special Olympics Kansas

TAKING THE PLUNGE TO YOU

We’re excited to introduce our brand-new Mobile Plunge Trailer, designed to bring the Polar Plunge to cities across Kansas with ease! 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. Be careful – this has a splash zone!

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

Get ready to party & make an impact, no matter where you are!

Play Video

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.