Featured Plunger: Aimee Anwiler
Aimee Anwiler's passion for Special Olympics Minnesota is undeniable. She has been involved with the organization for nearly 10 years, since the age of 16. Her love for competition spans an involvement in nine different sports over the years, including ice hockey, track, skiing, golf and her favorites, basketball and floor hockey,. She has traveled to Nebraska, Florida and even Japan for skiing, competing in both Special Olympics National and World Games.
"It's all about having fun," says Aimee, expressing her love for Special Olympics Minnesota, "and having fun with friends." She enjoys competing and meeting other athletes from different teams. Aimee even met her fiancé through Special Olympics Minnesota. They were both chosen to go to Nebraska for the Golf Leadership Conference Meeting, and they spent time together at Summer Sports Camp. They have decided to hold their reception at a golf course, since they both love the sport.
Aimee's Plunge experience has spanned three years, and she is entering her fourth season Plunging. Her first two Plunges took place in Duluth, and her third was at Grand Rapids, a new location last Plunge season. This year, she plans to take the dip in Rochester.
Aimee jumped with friends her first two Plunges and with three Special Olympics Minnesota coaches her third time. This year, she is still attempting to round up a group of friends to Plunge. She has a few brave souls on board, but, she explains, some are not fans of the cold. So far, her fiancé has agreed to support her from the sidelines. Even though the cold may prevent some of her friends from participating, Aimee does not plan to let that get in her way.
Knowing her participation goes toward a cause about which she truly cares, Aimee has a passion for Plunging. She also loves the actual jump into the water. "I love the rush when you jump in," Aimee said. "You know it's going to be cold, but you don't know how cold." She enjoys being involved in the Plunge because she knows the money goes to something in which she is involved — not just in Minnesota, but nationally and around the world.
What are Aimee's Plunge team costume plans for 2012? "We'll figure it out when it gets closer," she said. The Rochester Plunge is not until Feb. 11, so that leaves ample time for brainstorming. Last year, she dressed up in a softball jersey, perfect for her love of sports. In years earlier, she has worn a T-shirt, shorts and crocs, heeding the popular advice not to be bogged down by too much heavy clothing.
To first-time Plungers, Aimee would recommend going with someone who has Plunged before, because they have a better idea of what to anticipate.
Aimee plans to keep Plunging as long as she can. People say, "Aimee, you're crazy," she explained, "But I keep on doing it. Be sure to experience this crazy thing, because it goes to a wonderful cause."
