Operation Volunteer Experience: A day to support Kochi United SC's home match (Sporu editorial staff Haruka)

November 10 (Sun) Participated in Kochi United SC's home game management volunteer held at Haruno General Sports Park in Kochi Prefecture. For me who loves soccer, it is my first experience to be involved in the back side of the game management. The day was filled with tension and expectations.

Flow of Activities – Gathering and Preparation

We gathered at 8:30 in the morning, two hours before the opening, and all staff members were briefed on the flow of the day. In addition to me, 16 volunteers were also participating. I was nervous because it was my first participation, but the people around me kindly talked to me and I was able to start my activities with peace of mind.

After that, they moved to their respective positions and started construction. I was in charge of admission. We set up a tent at the reception booth, set up a visitor information board, and prepared a reception booth. The construction of the tent was an image of hard work, but if the volunteer members worked together, it was possible for women to respond.

I proceeded while having senior volunteers teach me the setup and procedure one by one, so I was able to proceed smoothly.

Entrance reception start

Entrance reception began at 10:30. At first, the job of welcoming visitors was a little confused, but as I continued to respond, I gradually got used to it. The number of visitors increased from around 11:30, and I was busy at a stretch, but by that time, tickets and guidance were able to be smooth, and I was able to learn the fun of communicating with visitors Was.

Until the start of the game at 13:00, we were able to feel a sense of unity as a reception team by cooperating with other volunteer staff while continuing to respond to visitors continuously.

Activities during the game

When the game started at 13:00, the flow of visitors calmed down. 30 minutes after the start of the game, you can take a break and take a lunch break. I bought a food and beverage menu that I was interested in at the store booth and had lunch while watching the game at the stand.

I was desperate when I was accepting the entrance, but when I saw the sight of many visitors cheering in front of me, I realized that I had the reception, and I was dedicated to my role I felt rewarding.

Clearing after finishing

As the end of the game approaches, the activity starts again. At the remaining 15 minutes, the tent at the reception booth was removed and visitors were prepared to leave.

After the match, while watching the visitors leave, clearing up the signboards etc. installed, finally receiving transportation expenses, looking back on the activities at the general meeting, and successfully completed the day's volunteer activities.

Impressions

This time, I participated in volunteering for the first time, and I had a more rewarding experience than I imagined. Looking at the cooperation between the staff and the smiles of the visitors, I was glad that I was able to become a member of this place. In particular, the experience of being able to do what I tried little by little while being embarrassed by my first job was able to realize growth and lead to a great sense of accomplishment.

There are various motivations for other volunteers to participate, such as fans of Kochi United SC, students who use internships, and families who want children to experience volunteer activities. The reason is different, but I felt the joy and sense of accomplishment ahead of the work I was responsible for, such as having everyone successfully succeeded in this day's game, and communicating with those who came to the event looking forward to the game. I was able to have a very valuable experience.

I am grateful for being able to work as a member of the management, and I would like to continue to value these opportunities in the future.

Would you like to join a volunteer too?

Please experience the fun and sense of accomplishment that supports local events with your own power!