Every significant sporting event relies on its hidden heroes, those who tirelessly work behind the scenes, ensuring the smooth running of the spectacle. At the Chengdu World University Games, these unsung heroes come in the form of approximately 20,000 enthusiastic volunteers. They are not the protagonists on the sporting stage, but without them, orchestrating such a grand event would be near impossible.
The volunteer force, a vibrant mix of individuals, will cater to a myriad of responsibilities throughout the Games. They will offer their services across multiple sites, such as competition venues, the FISU Games Village, the central media center, airports, and bus stations.
One of the first volunteers to join the team in June was Zhou Zhili, who serves as the workforce and volunteer manager at the Dong’an Lake Sports Park Artistic Gymnastics Venue Operation Center. Zhou disclosed to the Global Times that the gymnastics venue alone employs 349 volunteers across 36 different roles, alongside an additional 53 backup volunteers prepared to step in during emergencies.
Drawn primarily from three local universities in Chengdu, the volunteers at the venue bring a youthful energy that invigorates everyone around them. Zhou shared her appreciation for their lively spirit, remarking, “They are very energetic, and are quick to respond. No matter how tired you feel, the sight of them will make you relieved and happy.”
The Chengdu volunteers have been fondly christened Xiao Qingjiao, translated to “little green peppers.” This endearing moniker not only encapsulates their energetic persona but, as Chen Xuan, a volunteer at the Games Village, pointed out, also alludes to the vibrant communication among the youth, thus reinforcing the Games as a significant platform for global youth engagement.
Volunteer assistant Chen Xuan is a student at Southwest Minzu University and refers to herself as “a volunteer for the volunteers,” as she oversees the general management of approximately 1,000 volunteers at the Games Village. Her work involves facilitating communication, ensuring their well-being, and providing supplies and amenities like exercise facilities, psychological counseling, and relaxation aids such as massage chairs and punching bags.
One of the youngest volunteers, 19-year-old Chen Jiandong, a Sichuan Police College student, described his participation in the Games as “the pinnacle of my life.” As one of the 18 flag raisers at the Shuangliu Sports Centre Stadium, Chen feels the weight of his responsibility as a representative of his college, province, and country. The flag raisers are tasked with raising the flags of medalists during the award ceremonies, a role Chen holds with great honor and pride.
“I hope all the flag raisers can do a wonderful job and contribute our own strength to the Chengdu Games,” Chen expressed. Indeed, each volunteer, from the flag raisers to those managing operations behind the scenes, forms a critical part of the event’s success. They are the pulse of the Chengdu World University Games, keeping the spirit of the event alive and ensuring its smooth execution.
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