Numerous York College varsity student-athletes were out in force last Saturday in support of the Special Olympics' Polar Bear Plunge in Wrightsville, Pa. The Spartans' Student Athlete Advisory Committee publicized the event in conjunction with NCAA Division III's partnership with the Special Olympics.

"This was a fantastic event," Spartan softball coach and SAAC advisor Nicki Starry said. "We had many student-athletes there willing to jump into the cold Susquehanna River! It was great to see the support."

The Polar Bear Plunge is an initiative from the Special Olympics to raise awareness and funds for the various programs offered through the organization. These events are held in various locations throughout the country. The event at the Susquehanna was offered through the Special Olympics Pennsylvania organization and held at the John Wright Building in Wrightsville, Pa.

"The opportunity to support the Special Olympics is a great initiative for the NCAA and we are glad we get to be part of that effort," Starry said. "We want our student-athletes to realize how important it is to give back to the community and events such as these give us a great opportunity to actually live that out."

Volleyball coach Sue DuMars took part in the event, as she was one of the Spartans to take the plunge (second from right in photo).

"It was a great atmosphere," DuMars said. "I certainly enjoyed seeing so many student-athletes at the plunge. It was definitely cold but it was fun."

According to the NCAA, "The purpose of the partnership [between the NCAA and Special Olympics] is to improve the lives of Special Olympics athletes through their involvement with Division III student-athletes and to foster a mutual learning experience between Division III student-athletes and Special Olympics athletes.

"Through this partnership, Division III student-athletes across the country will be encouraged to participate in existing Special Olympics events, create their own events, or otherwise serve to support Special Olympics organization. The activities pursued by student-athletes will vary in each state and region, tailored to best utilize the student-athletes' time and local resources."