The Special Olympics gathered at the Lincoln High School Girls Gymnasium over the weekend for a basketball tournament. The tournament drew participants from Lawrence, Washington, and Allegheny counties for the games. The athletes are prepared physically and psychologically for the games and the competitive desire to win made the games quite competitive.

"The folks were having a great time out here. They were really competing hard and there was great sportsmanship all around," said Anthony Ovial, one of the event's referees. "There were tons of high-fives all around."

Countless county residents, like Mr. Ovial, volunteer their time coaching teams, officiating games, organizing events, raising funds, and playing numerous other roles. New volunteers are always welcome. Following are just some of the ways you can get involved in SOLC:

• Become a certified Special Olympics coach.

• Serve as games director, certified official, or team manager.

• Act as a greeter, athlete escort, or cheerleader at SOLC events.

• Transport athletes to practice and competitions.

• Obtain equipment for SOLC athletes.

• Make financial or in-kind donations as an individual or through a business. Sponsor or adopt SOLC teams.

• Conduct fund-raising campaigns in schools or through a civic group, church, or other organization.

• Make donations of goods, services, or office supplies.

(Source: specialolympicspa.org)  (view photos)