The summer of 2014 has been a fantastic time for European University Sport. Rotterdam was host of the 2nd European Universities Games which provided some unbelievable moments - but not just for athletes. The Games offered a chance for over 100 International student volunteers to be involved in the event and make a real contribution, creating a legacy to pass on the next games in Zagreb. In this month’s edition we catch up with some of the volunteers and their experience in Rotterdam. 

 

 

João Pedro Coelho from Portugal was one of the International volunteers who played a big part in adding to the success of the Games. The twenty one year old student studying electronic engineering was based as a host at the central station for both futsal and volleyball teams. Joao heard about the chance to volunteer in Rotterdam through a friend and was excited about the opportunity to play his part. Being a volunteer is not only just about having a great experience and meeting new friends - it provides volunteers the opportunity to learn new transferable skills. 

 

What did you enjoy about being a volunteer?

“For me it’s very important to practice my English because it’s necessary for my future job and I like sports very much so to be a volunteer was a pleasure.”

 

What did you gain during this event?

“I improved my English, then I gained experience at a number of different sports that I’m not familiar with. Finally, I met people from different countries and cultures which was a great experience for me.”

 

Would you recommend to your friends to become a volunteer at future EUSA events?

“Yes, it was one of the best experiences of my life. When I arrived back home in Portugal I told all my friends that my time in Rotterdam was an amazing experience and they should apply to the next events.”

 

 

Karolina Skup from Poland was another international volunteer at the Games. The twenty one year student is in her third year studying law at the University of Wroclaw. Similar to João Pedro, Karolina heard about the opportunity to volunteer through a friend who had previously volunteered at the 1st EUSA Games in Cordoba. Karolina was based with the sports of handball and basketball where she played in important part of the team keeping track of scoring. 

 

What did you enjoy about being a volunteer?

“You can meet a lot of people, do some interesting things in a different country, see how a big sport event is organised and practice my language skills.”

 

What did you gain during this event?

“I gained more experience in the organisation of sports events, a lot of friends, motivation to learn other languages and the opportunity to visit other countries.”

 

Would you recommend to your friends participation as a volunteers during other EUSA events?

“Of course, I had a great time!”

 

 

Finally we spoke to Minea Dorin Cristian from Romania. Minea is a twenty five year old student studying educational science. Minea had heard about the event through his brother Cosmin who was notified by his University in Budapest. Minea was based in a lot of different places throughout the championship - from being based at the volleyball, transport desk and also in some occasions a driver. 

 

What did you enjoy about being a volunteer?

“New friends, fantastic social events, the experience of working in another country and also the work itself!”

 

What did you gain during this event?

“I met some great friends and also learned a lot about how big sports events, such as the EUSA Games, are managed and organised. One of the biggest things I will take away from this experience is the fantastic memories of the whole event!”

 

Would you recommend to your friends participation as a volunteers during other EUSA events?

“Of course! I had a great experience and would encourage others to apply!”

 

The EUGames in Rotterdam were enjoyed by many and the International volunteers played a significant part in the development of the Championship and the legacy of the European University Sports Association. Volunteers are crucial to all sports events and were essential to the games in Rotterdam. EUSA and the Student Commission are delighted to hear about all the positive experiences and are very grateful for all the work the international volunteers did whilst based in Rotterdam for three weeks. We hope to see you all in the European Universities Championships next year and at the European Universities Games in Zagreb-Rijeka in 2016! 

 

Are you a student with an opinion? We are looking for new contributors for our student column every month. Feel free to contact stc@eusa.eu to offer a piece or propose a topic.