Sportswriter Chris Ballard on his latest book, 'The Plunge'

MS - Sports Illustrated Writer Chris Ballard

June 17, 2026 We speak with Chris Ballard, writer for Sports Illustrated, about his latest book .... "The Plunge:  Maverick Swimmers, An Unlikely Quest, and the Transformative power of Cold Water."   The book explores why so many people around the world willingly and even eagerly plunge themselves into very cold water - including some who engage in what is called Ice Swimming, which involves swimming fairly significant distances in water that is…

Sportswriter Chris Ballard on his latest book, 'The Plunge'

Chris Ballard, left, with rec league basketball teammate Tom Poser. (Courtesy of Chris Ballard). Chris Ballard is best known for his work as a sportswriter, primarily during his time at Sports Illustrated. But once upon a time, he played Division III basketball at Pomona College in Claremont, California. His passion for the sport led to injuries later in life. Seeking treatment, he tried intense cold therapy. What he didn’t expect was that his h…