Fraser King, a basketballer and University of Wollongong team captain, is known for his athletic prowess and champion apple crumble baking. He also has autism and is training for the Special Olympics National Games in Melbourne this October. Along with 12 other Illawarra athletes, he is calling on the community to participate in the Polar Plunge to raise funds for their journey.
The Polar Plunge, now in its second year, invites the public to register, raise funds, and plunge into the chilly Continental Pool on Saturday, July 4. All proceeds will help athletes cover expenses for the games. On Tuesday, May 26, Fraser joined fellow athletes Tara Elliffe and Timothy Walsh in a preview plunge to encourage sign-ups.
Fraser expressed gratitude for the growing community support, saying, 'In the earlier days we struggled to get that community support and have people get on board, but it's nice to see everyone buying into what we're doing and getting the funding and support we deserve.' He will compete in the A-grade men's basketball team, coached by Illawarra-based Lucas Walker, fulfilling a lifelong goal.
Other Illawarra athletes heading to the games include Kristin Mercer (athletics), Tiana Fina (swimming), Hayden Richens, Brittany Anderson, Taylor Anderson, and Luke Huska (basketball), and Michelle Weidner, Sean King, Michael Borg, Jessica Duncan, and Natalie Gartshore (tenpin bowling).
Local police have also signed up, aiming to top the $8000 they raised in 2025. Wollongong Police District Commander Superintendent Karen Cook said, 'It's a really good opportunity for us to support these really wonderful athletes.' Special Olympics Illawarra chair Kellie Henson emphasized that funds will support athletes at all levels, from World Games medalists to weekly trainers.
