Number of Participants: 66
Hours Donated: 4
Value of Time Served: $9,185
Event Amount Raised: $8,800
Event Type: Children & Youth
Activity: Boys Lacrosse
School: Totino-Grace High School
Date: March 3, 2026
Location:
Totino-Grace High School
Gardena Avenue Northeast, Fridley
MN
About:
Student-athletes from Totino-Grace High School and St. Anthony Village High School recently combined service, teamwork, and a little courage by participating in the Polar Plunge in Blaine, Minnesota.
Members of the boys lacrosse programs from both schools took the plunge in support of Special Olympics Minnesota, raising an impressive $8,800 to help fund inclusive sports opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
The idea for the fundraiser came as the program looked for a way to support a meaningful cause while also strengthening team culture. Rather than focusing on traditional product sales, the coaches wanted an experience that allowed the athletes themselves to take ownership of the effort and learn the value of giving back.
To add a competitive twist, the players were divided into four teams, each led by a captain. The team that secured the most pledges—based on the number of donations over $10—earned a Chipotle lunch from the coach, while the individual with the highest fundraising total received a new lacrosse head. The format helped tap into the players’ competitive spirit while motivating everyone to participate.
In total, 36 players took part in the fundraising effort, with 30 athletes jumping on the day of the event. Each participant raised at least the $75 minimum required to plunge, with many exceeding that goal. One player alone raised more than $600.
On the day of the event, the team gathered at a nearby house before walking together to the plunge site. After braving the icy water, players and families celebrated the accomplishment with a team lunch at a local restaurant.
The day served as more than just a fundraiser—it became a memorable team-building experience and an unofficial kickoff to the upcoming lacrosse season.
By stepping outside their comfort zone and supporting an important cause, the lacrosse players from Totino-Grace High School and St. Anthony Village High School demonstrated how athletics can foster leadership, camaraderie, and community impact both on and off the field.
