At the Newfoundland and Labrador Summer Games in Corner Brook, the spotlight is on the athletes this week, but a dedicated group of over 300 volunteers in orange shirts are diligently working behind the scenes to ensure smooth operations.
Transition day on Wednesday marked the arrival of the second wave of athletes in the city, with sports activities set to resume in the evening. Duane Huxter, stationed at the Corner Brook Civic Centre, has been busy organizing merchandise for the athletes, including folding t-shirts for over a week without a break.
Volunteers play a crucial role in various aspects of the Games, from collaborating with local authorities to coordinate logistics to ensuring the seamless execution of the games at different venues. Dave Campbell, the games director at SportNL and a member of the Games host committee, highlighted the importance of teamwork and community involvement for the event’s success.
Coordinating apparel for ten teams is no small feat, but Huxter emphasized the significance of creating lasting memories for the athletes through their uniforms. While his involvement in events like the opening ceremonies may be modest, he finds fulfillment in contributing to the athletes’ positive experience.
Despite the physical demands and long hours, Huxter is driven by the desire to see athletes leave the event with a sense of accomplishment and pride. Witnessing the athletes proudly don their team colors, knowing he had a hand in preparing their attire, brings a sense of fulfillment to both him and his fellow volunteers.
The dedication and hard work of volunteers like Huxter underscore the community spirit and support that are essential for the success of volunteer-driven events like the Newfoundland and Labrador Summer Games.