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MARQUETTE -- With 145 athletes coming from five different counties across the U.P., you can imagine the manpower it takes to put on the Special Olympics.

Games are not just held in the winter and summer, but year-round for both children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

The 2010 games are fast approaching, and that means it's time to register to either participate as an athlete or volunteer.

"We try and have all certified coaches," said Area 36 Director Marie Martin.  "We have training for coaches that are certified, and once you're certified in Special Olympics as a coach, you just have to recertify every three years."

A recruitment meeting will be held Wednesday, November 18 at 7 p.m. at the Holiday Inn in Marquette.  Anyone interested in competing in any one of the many sports offered can sign up, as well as those wanting to help out.