article by Jessica Renstrom

The Special Olympics Montana State Summer Games are returning to Billings this May, where more than 1,000 athletes und the state will display their skills and determination.

The Special Olympics Summer Games give athletes with intellectual disabilities the chance to compete in various sports, such as track and field, golf, cycling, bocce, soccer, gymnastics, and swimming, while also broadening their communities and leadership opportunities.

“These are not patronizing activities to keep people with intellectual disabilities busy,” explains Holly Netz, Senior Director of Marketing and Communications for Special Olympics Montana. “These individuals are athletes. They train, and they’re there to win.”

The State Summer Games, scheduled for May 13–15, rotate between Montana’s larger cities every three years. With Billings hosting for the last time before the Games move to Missoula next year, organizers saw an opportunity to create something truly meaningful: an opening ceremony that not only celebrates athletic achievement but also deeply honors Native American culture. “We really wanted to honor our Native American athletes,” says Holly. “This seemed like the perfect year to do that.”

At this year’s Opening Ceremony, two Native American athletes from Billings serve as co-emcees: Laci Nomee, a member of the Crow tribe who has competed in Special Olympics since 2004 and participates in track and field, cycling, basketball, and bowling; and Keith King, a seasoned athlete and mile runner known for his fierce competitiveness and leadership. Keith, a member of the Assiniboine tribe, is a Native dancer and drum circle member. He has completed Special Olympics’ athlete leadership training and has been a prominent advocate and public speaker across the state.

In addition to the parade of athletes, this year’s Opening Ceremony will feature Native American dancers, drummers, singers, and flag carriers, all coordinated in partnership with Native leaders and educators. Behind the stage, large screens will display the flags of tribes from across Montana and beyond, emphasizing the ceremony’s theme of cultural recognition and unity. “The reason we have chosen our Opening Ceremony to honor the rich Native American culture in Montana is to honor our Native American athletes. Sports provide a wonderful way to support them, showcase their talents, and bring everyone together,” says Holly. “It's inspiring to see the joy and growth they experience through sports.”

Opening ceremonies will be held at the Metra and are free and open to the public. Similarly, the public is welcome and encouraged to attend the Games and witness their far-reaching impact: “If you want to see the good of humanity, come to a Special Olympics event,” Holly encourages. “I’ve never met anyone who was involved, even in a tiny way, who wasn’t changed.”

With over 1,200 volunteers required to organize the three-day event and more than a thousand athletes gearing up to compete, the Games promise intense competition and moments of true joy.

Originally printed in the April 2026 issue of Simply Local Magazine

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