Polar Plunge Powers On: Remembering Scott Backstrom
Written by Missy Hermes, Photos by Sheila Hanson
Scott Backstrom was a passionate person. He was passionate about his family, career, grilling, the Minnesota Vikings and the Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Minnesota. Sadly Scott passed on November 1, 2023, but his legacy lives on. One of the ways you can witness Scott’s impact on Otter Tail County is by attending or participating in the annual Polar Plunge. This charity event is typically held on Otter Tail Lake on the first Saturday in February.
Born and raised in Otter Tail County, Scott left for a time. When he returned, Backstrom brought not only his engaging personality and tremendous work ethic but also a desire to help others. Backstrom worked for Otter Tail County for over twenty years and was instrumental in bringing the Polar Plunge to the area in 2020. Scott had participated in Polar Plunges at other locations and was part of the steering committee that brought the annual event to Otter Tail County. Polar Plunge for Special Olympics Minnesota is a series of charitable events held around the state, all dedicated to raising money for Special Olympics athletes. The day draws in spectators eager to watch teams of fundraisers plunging into the frigid winter waters.
Famous for his impressive belly flop, Backstrom wasn’t on hand to lead his team this year, but his presence was felt. The man also known as “Admiral BigGun” was on the hearts and minds of many. As well as special t-shirts with his signature look on his sleeve.
I absolutely despise the cold. But, I think the plunge is a good reminder to get out of my comfort zone once in a while, you know? Do something positive for someone else’s benefit. I’m thankful to be able to contribute and I know the athletes truly appreciate the outpouring of support from the community. It’s kid of like “Minnesota Nice” meeting “Minnesota Ice”.
Scott “Admiral BigGun” Backstrom
A team of plungers led by Scott’s daughters called Scott Admiral BigGun’s Purple Plungers raised over $13,000 and carried the torch of donning the colors of Scott’s favorite football team. Marie Noplos was part of the team and had this to say about the day. “I am so proud of our community! It was an emotional day. It was wonderful to have his wife volunteering as she has every year in the past, his daughters nieces and nephews, family and friends take the plunge in his honor this year! This event will never be the same without him leading our team into the icy waters but I know Scott was there cheering from the sky.”
The 2024 Otter Tail Polar Plunge for Special Olympics was the most successful event to-date. An all-time event record of over 200 people took the plunge and raised just under $100,000. Bringing the five year total to over $430,000 raised. Local partners include Steve’s Sanitation and the Otter Express which shuttles plungers and spectators to and from the plunge site. The Otter Supper Club hosts the shuttle stop and offers food specials for hungry plungers. This year Thumper Pond Resort offered special lodging packages as well.
