New Rochelle Athletes Raise Funds for their Special Olympics Compatriots
Athletes and coaches from New Rochelle High School were “freezin’ for a reason” at the Polar Plunge Nov. 8 at Rye Playland Beach. The event, sponsored by Curry Automotive, is a fundraiser for Special Olympics. The $250,000 raised ensures that none of the Special Olympians have to pay to participate in the games. The New Rochelle team raised nearly $3,000 and made the list of the top five public school teams in Westchester.
Special guest, City School District of New Rochelle Facilities Director Keith Watkins, joined the fun and was a top fundraiser, plunging with $1,800 in donations.
“Special Olympics holds an important place in my heart, and I’m happy to support an event that ensures our athletes can compete without having to worry about cost. I look forward to seeing the Pioneers have fun and win medals at the Games this spring,” said Watkins.
Other members of the New Rochelle team were athletic director Joe Donaldson, swim coach Kip Fierro, football coach Tom Drago, and the junior varsity and varsity football teams. Players who plunged included Joe Morello, Nick Morello, Luke Zaccagino, Landon Walsh, Rob Clark, John DiGiacomo Jr., Bryce Cunningham, and Zaire Perez.
“I’m so proud of our student athletes,” said Donaldson. “They demonstrate character on and off the field and support our community in many positive ways. I’m happy to see our teams supporting our Special Olympics athletes, and we look forward to another impressive year at the Games.”
In addition to the warmth of helping out their fellow athletes, the plungers got a hoodie that came in handy after the icy plunge into the frigid Long Island Sound.