Athletes are showcasing their talents at the Newfoundland and Labrador Summer Games in Corner Brook this week, supported by a dedicated team of over 300 volunteers in orange shirts working behind the scenes to ensure smooth operations.
Wednesday marked the transition day at the Games, as the second wave of athletes arrived in the city. Sporting events will resume later in the evening.
Duane Huxter has been diligently organizing merchandise at the Corner Brook Civic Centre for over a week, focusing on preparing items for the athletes, particularly folding t-shirts.
Reflecting on his unexpected extended stay, Huxter shared with CBC News his initial plan to organize a small amount of merchandise last Monday but has been at the venue ever since.
Volunteers play a crucial role in various aspects of the Games, from collaborating with local authorities to manage logistics to overseeing venue operations to guarantee a seamless experience for participants.
Dave Campbell, the games director at SportNL and a member of the Games host committee, emphasized the importance of teamwork and community engagement in achieving success.
He credited the strong community connections and volunteer commitment in Corner Brook and Stephenville for the smooth execution of the events, stressing that such large-scale initiatives heavily rely on volunteer support.
Coordinating attire for 10 teams presents a significant challenge, but Huxter highlighted the impact it can have on creating lasting memories for the athletes.
While his involvement in events like the opening ceremonies was modest, Huxter expressed satisfaction in contributing to the athletes’ positive experience.
He emphasized the gratification of seeing athletes proudly representing their regions, donning the clothes he had meticulously prepared, and the sense of accomplishment shared among the dedicated volunteers.
Overall, the commitment and hard work of volunteers like Huxter ensure that athletes leave the event with a positive and memorable experience, reflecting the spirit of community support at the Newfoundland and Labrador Summer Games.