Taking the Plunge for Special Olympics

Taking the Plunge for Special Olympics

Stanton School’s Team Plungers: Front Row: Mr. Sefcik, Mr. Medrano, Mr. Smeigh. Middle Row: Mr. Shannon, Mr. Bressett, Mr. Fischer. Back Row: Mr. Thomas, Mr. Roat, Mr. Carvell, Mr. Olson.

It was with warm hearts and cold toes that ten brave staff members from Stanton School were freezing for a reason on Saturday, February 28 at Fox Lake’s 2016 Polar Bear Plunge.  Team Plunger teamed up with Special Olympics and raised over $1,600.00 to provide sports training and competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with disabilities.   Principal Jeff Sefcik, the team’s captain, has personally witnessed the transformative power of Special Olympics and felt inspired to support such a wonderful organization.  “I have a former student and a family friend who participated in gymnastics and basketball.  I consider the Special Olympic athletes the true champions.  Every day they work hard to exceed their personal bests and overcome barriers through sports. The physical, emotional, and social benefits that these athletes gain while competing is amazing.  I’ve watched these athletes develop courage, character, and dedication, and not let their intellectual and developmental disabilities stop them from winning on and off the court.”

By taking the plunge and supporting Special Olympics, the Stanton Plungers helped bring joy to these special athletes and their families through the love of sports.  Mr. Sefcik and the rest of his team hope to make the Polar Bear Plunge a tradition at Stanton School.