(MURFREESBORO) The ritual of welcoming the New Year was celebrated at 10:00 o'clock Saturday morning at SportsCom's outdoor pool, and the temps weremabout the same as the previous year.

Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation Department Director Nate Williams told WGNS News . . .

The doors to the gym opened at 8:30AM where the affectionately called "Polar Plungers" entered--many wearing unique costumes. While in the gym, there were games, bounce house, dancing with a giant polar bear, lots of food and fun. 

At 10:00 o'clock the crowd headed outisde to the 'Boro Beach. The air temperature was 45 degrees and the water was only slightly warmer at 41. By the way, our records show the water temp in 2022 was 43, so it was actually 2-degrees cooler this year. 

However, in 2022 snow and ice was covering the ground and the air temperature was 32. Surprisingly, the water temperature was 42 that year. It was pointed out that the water temp remains around the same unless it is much colder for a period of time. 

More of the plungers enjoyed the pool after the event than in previous years. Many stayed and enjoyed diving, some youngsters played in the water under the nets, while others simply enjoyed splashing in the pool. 

As Williams noted, proceeds from the 2024 event will go to Area 16 Special Olympics.