Seattle Seawolves forward Pago Haini is taking on the Special Olympics Washington Super Plunge in 2026. This year’s event marks the organization’s first-ever 24-hour Polar Plunge, bringing athletes, supporters, and communities together across Washington.

Watch the full interview with Pago

Donate to support Pago’s 2026 Super Plunge

Learn more about the Polar Plunge event

Pago first took the Polar Plunge in 2024 alongside his Seattle Seawolves teammates. Reflecting on that experience, he shared:

“In 2024, I took the plunge alongside my Seattle Seawolves teammates, with Louie, my dog, right there with us. It was cold, chaotic, and unforgettable, but more than anything, it was a moment that reminded me why I fell in love with rugby.”

Standing shoulder to shoulder with his teammates reinforced what rugby has always meant to him.

“Rugby is one of the most inclusive sports in the world. It celebrates all shapes, sizes, backgrounds, and abilities. Every role matters, from the fastest runner to the strongest forward, from the tactical mind to the quiet leader who rises in the biggest moments.”

That sense of belonging is what brings Pago back for the 2026 Super Plunge. This year, the cause is also deeply personal.

During the interview, Pago spoke about his cousin Cassandra, who has special needs and shaped how he understands empathy and resilience.

“I’m also participating in this event in honor of my cousin Cassandra, who I grew up with and who has special needs. Growing up alongside her opened my eyes to challenges many people never see, and it shaped my understanding of empathy, resilience, and gratitude.”

He continued:

“Today, watching Cassandra build her own life and family is a powerful reminder that strength doesn’t always look the same, but it is always present.”

That lived experience connects directly to the mission of Special Olympics Washington, which serves more than 12,000 athletes statewide through year-round training, health programs, leadership development, and inclusive community experiences.

As Pago explained:

“Like rugby, it proves that everyone belongs on the field and that every person has something meaningful to contribute.”

The 2026 Super Plunge is an ambitious challenge, but the impact is real.

“Every dollar raised supports year-round training, health and fitness programs, leadership development, and inclusive community experiences across Washington.”

You do not need to take the plunge to help. You can donate, share the story, or support from the sidelines. Each action helps create a more inclusive world through sport.

Pago summed it up clearly:

“Together, we can turn courage into opportunity, inclusion into action, and belief into life-changing impact, one plunge, one donation, one athlete at a time.”

Together we hunt.

Thank you to KOMO News for featuring this story.

Thank you to Special Olympics Washington for the opportunity to support athletes, families, and communities through this powerful event.