Changes

[[Category:Tradition]]

Usually not "swimming" per se, Williams' polar bears immerse themselves in bodies of water outdoors at all times of the year, especially in excruciating cold. It is a tradition and a kind of rite, from the walk across campus in the wee morning or dead of night, holding towels, all the way to shivering nakedness at the water's edge, thinking all the time about turning back. Those who persist are rewarded with an incredible adrenaline rush, an almost-magical feeling of warmth upon emerging from the frigid waters, and permanent bragging rights.