Volunteers add glory to Shanxi provincial games

(goshanxi.com.cn)

Updated: 2023-08-16

In addition to the athletes who have faced many challenges and set numerous records or personal bests, a group of young volunteers from Datong city have also captured the spotlight during the ongoing 16th Games of Shanxi Province. 

To ensure the successful opening of the provincial games, the organizing committee selected over 800 volunteers who provided professional event support and services for the games, while also assisting the athletes, helping to maintain order, and positively promoting Datong during the opening ceremony and subsequent sports events. 

"This has been an amazing challenge and experience. Our professional instructor guided us in how to perform various tasks and roles, emphasizing the importance of our poise, facial expressions, and general (friendly) appearance," said 25-year-old etiquette volunteer Yuan Xiaomin.

Through countless rehearsals, she and her teammates flawlessly executed the awards presentation process, with not a single mistake made. 

The volunteers' work may appear ordinary and humble, but it is an indispensable part of the games. During this tourist season in Datong, they have enthusiastically dedicated themselves to serving the provincial games, showcasing their charisma and spirit of dedication.

The Datong Youth Volunteer Association organized a 50-member team to handle hotel receptions and logistical support for the provincial games. Although they have not been to the competition venues, or witnessed the opening ceremony, their tireless efforts and smiling faces stand testament to how incredibly fulfilling they find their work to be, despite the chronic fatigue they experience on a daily basis.

Over 20 young volunteers are stationed at the athletes' village, living and dining together with the athletes. Whenever someone needs a helping hand, these volunteers are readily available. 

"Many of the athletes are about the same age as us. After the competitions, we often play basketball together or recommend some local delicacies and tourist attractions to them in Datong," said one volunteer named Fan Sensen.

At the village, one group of volunteers is dedicated to anti-doping services. Their main tasks involve organizing training activities and guiding athletes in an anti-doping knowledge questionnaire. 

"It is my first time doing anti-doping volunteer work, and during the training, I realized that certain commonly consumed beverages and medications are also classified as prohibited substances. We need to be especially vigilant about these. I feel honored to be able to assist the athletes," said He Yidan, another volunteer.

The young volunteers from Datong have not only demonstrated their commitment to service but also fostered a positive and vibrant atmosphere at the provincial games, leaving a lasting impression on participants and spectators alike.