How many Polar Plungers would a Penguin Polar Plunge if a Penguin Polar Plunger could plunge? 

You can find out on New Year’s Day at 11 a.m. at the beautiful Hendrick’s Head Beach in Southport! 

This year, the Boothbay Region YMCA Polar Plunge team is making a few exciting changes to invite more fun, more families, and more community support—all for a great cause. 

First, we’re thrilled to announce a new plunging venue at Hendrick’s Head Beach. Larry Brown and friends will be setting up a kiddie pool right on the sand, where participants can join in for a spirited round of the Hokey Pokey and choose their own level of “plunge.” Dip your fingers, wiggle your toes, or jump all the way in—no ocean plunge required! 

Second, Hendrick’s Head offers an easy, safe walk from the parking lot to the beach. With clear, shallow water near shore, it’s an ideal spot for families and first-time plungers. 

Third, there is no registration fee this year. Donations are encouraged, and all proceeds will support the Boothbay Region YMCA Dolphins swim team. Head swim coach Conxa Packard shares, “Right now we’re looking to purchase new equipment that helps our swimmers train and improve their technique. Training flippers will allow swimmers to get a better feel for strokes like the butterfly, while also strengthening kicks and increasing stroke rotation.” 

The Dolphins have a long history at the Y. This year’s team includes 28 swimmers ages 6 to 16, and some of them will be on hand at the Penguin Plunge. Nine-year-old Jo Ogusky says, “It’s really fun to swim together, and I didn’t know there were so many strokes!” Assistant swim coach Lenore Imhof adds, “Swimming is a lifelong sport that keeps the mind and body healthy and happy. Being part of a swim team helps youth build lifelong friendships—the camaraderie and commitment they show each other is what inspires me to coach.” Ninth-grader Audrey Robinson shares that she enjoys “organized swim workouts and having something fun to do after school.” 

Fourth, all participants will receive a special Penguin Plunge mug, along with other fun swag. Warm beverages and snacks will be waiting for everyone after the dip. 

This year’s 2026 Penguin Plunge Honorees are The Little Dippers, who take daily dips at Hendrick’s Head Beach—so they’ll be plunging on their home surf! Founder Morgan Mitchell says, “This will be great fun, and what a delight that it will be at Hendrick’s Head this year!” 

Limited parking is available for early arrivals at the Hendrick’s Head Beach lot. Additional parking is available at the Southport General Store and the Southport School, with carpooling encouraged. Keep an eye out for the Y mini-bus—warm and ready to shuttle plungers to and from the beach. 

For questions, contact a member of the 2026 Penguin Plunge Team: 

• David Washburn at dwashburn@brymca.org 
• Erin Gray at egray@brymca.org 
• Allyson Goodwin at agoodwin@brymca.org 

To donate in advance, visit boothbayregionymca.org/annual-giving.html and select 2026 Penguin Plunge from the Campaign menu. 

So mark your calendars and come on down! Jump in, dip your whole self, dangle your fingers or toes, cheer on the dippers—or simply donate to support the swim team—and start 2026 off with a splash.