Making a charge into wintry water in bare-bones attire isn't for everyone, but Jordan Martinook, Jordan Staal, Brock McGinn, Trevor van Riemsdyk, Haydn Fleury and James Reimer joined Gardiner in signature event for Special Olympics.
"We were out there 15 to 20 minutes beforehand just talking, setting it up," Gardiner said. "It's not like you're going from your winter clothes into the water. You're sitting in your t-shirt and shorts for 15 minutes before jumping in the water so you're getting even colder."
They made a tentative dash for the water, then flailed long enough to film a video that helped raise awareness and fund the Special Olympics mission.
Once they were immersed, nobody dilly dallied in the water very long.
"Once we were in and out though, we were all pretty good," Gardiner said. "Trevor's teeth were chattering a little bit beforehand though."
Gardiner is a longtime supporter of Special Olympics, and his interest in the cause grew from the participation of his brother-in-law, Sam Cashin.
"He plays floor hockey, ice hockey, softball, track. He kind of does it all," Gardiner said. "I help out with his track practices in the summer when I can. He's just a great guy to be around. He just always brings positive energy."
The Hurricanes defenseman said it was easy to round up willing polar bears. He convinced them with a group text last week. Gardiner also pointed out that McGinn used to spend his lunch time in high school sitting with a student who had intellectual disabilities.
"Everyone feels a little involved and wants to do something for a good cause," Gardiner said.
Then he noted his teammates actually got off easy.
"I'm from Minnesota," Gardiner said. "So if you do a polar plunge there, it's a lot colder. But either way, you're still cold."
