Vernon sisters take part in Polar Plunge

VERNON — Vernon sisters Emma Jean and Chloe DeLuca-Knighton were among the 1.042 participants in the 9th Annual Polar Plunge for the Special Olympics of New Jersey which was held in Wildwood on Jan. 17.

Although they participated together each sister had her own motivation for braving the 27-degree air temperature and plunging into the icy Atlantic Ocean.

Emma, a member of the Fairleigh Dickinson University Knights collegiate softball team, is rehabbing a torn hamstring that she received during a fall ball game in October. Still she said “as a collegiate athlete I am blessed to be physically and emotionally able to play the sport that I love. The Special Olympics offers the same opportunities to some who would not otherwise have them. Athletic competition can bridge many gaps. The Olympics helps to bridge cultural gaps between competitors from many nations and the Special Olympics helps to narrow the gap that can sometimes exist between differently-abled folks. Just as playing for a college team provides me the opportunity to work toward a team goal as I strive to improve my individual skills, the Special Olympians are able to experience the satisfaction of being part of something bigger. They acquire new communication skills, set goals and work to achieve their dreams.”

Chloe, a pre-occupational therapy student at County College of Morris says she has always had a special place in her heart for people with special needs.

“It’s something God put there," she said. "When I was younger I volunteered at a special needs gymnastic class for several years. I really enjoyed those classes and I gained so much more than I gave. As a senior in high school, I volunteered in a special needs class for one period a day. Throughout the year, I witnessed first-hand the progress made by students as goals were set and reached. I was so happy to have played a small role and I hope to be able to continue to have a positive impact on the lives of the very special people within the special needs community.“

The Polar Bear Plunges are sponsored by the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics New Jersey.

The Special Olympics of New Jersey supports 24,000 athletes who train and compete in 24 Olympic-type sports throughout the year. The plunge is just one of several fundraising events that benefit these athletes and allowing them to train, compete and participate completely free of charge. For more information about the Special Olympics of New Jersey, visit www.sonj.org.