PHOTO GALLERY: Special Olympics volunteers bring leadership to the games

May 31, 2012 | 6:56 p.m. CDT

Volunteers, whether new or returning veterans, are a vital part of the Special Olympics State Summer Games. For both volunteers and athletes, taking part in the games is a gratifying experience

From left, Tony Mittchel, head coach Dianna Neihouse and Max Stalker huddle during their game on Thursday in Brewer Court at the MU Student Recreation Complex. Neihouse’s daughter competes in the Special Olympics on a different team than the one Neilhouse volunteers with. “We are not just coaches,” Neilhouse said. "We have gained new friends.” | Robert Swain

Max Stalker passes the ball to a teammate on Thursday in Brewer Court at the MU Student Recreation Complex. Stalker has been playing basketball for 13 years and this year started playing for the Lee’s Summit Special Olympics Adult Basketball Team. | Robert Swain

Brandi Persinger, foreground, Whitney Durr and Thomas Persinger are classmates at Pleasant Hope High School. The three friends came from Pleasant Hope to cheer on the competitors of the 2012 Special Olympics State Summer Games in Brewer Court at MU's Recreation Center on Thursday. “I tried to recruit people from my school,” Durr said. “And here we are.” | Robert Swain

Kelly Rebori, left, and volunteer head coach Dianna Neihouse practice just before their game Thursday in Brewer Court at the MU Student Recreation Complex. This is the first year the Lee Summit Special Olympics Adult Basketball Team has played at the Special Olympics State Summer Games. Neihouse has been volunteer coaching for 10 years and started the Lee’s Summit team this year. “It brings them a sense of accomplishment and pride," Neihouse said. | Robert Swain