With heart and dedication – Volunteering at the Special Olympics NRW Sports Tours

On 14 and 15 June 2025, the Special Olympics NRW (SONRW) Sports Tour stopped off in Wesel. Over 180 athletes came together at the Auestadion to compete in football, boccia, and athletics – with the aim to qualify for the 2026 national games in Saarland.

The Institute of Sports Science (IFSS) at TU Dortmund University was well represented by student volunteers, who joined the event as part of the „Vorbereitungsseminar für das außerschulische Berufsfeldpraktikum“ (head: Marie Kupjetz). The student volunteers supported event preparation on Friday, helped out at numerous stations during the competitions on Saturday and Sunday, and contributed to a smooth flow of the event until Sunday early evening – always in action and recognisable by their red T-shirts. They took on a wide range of tasks during the competitions, such as cheering on the athletes and assisting with the award ceremonies.

The SONRW team and the hosts in Wesel provided optimal conditions in terms of  organisation, sports facilities, and equipment. The physical well-being of the participants was also well catered for, allowing everyone to concentrate fully on the sports and have a good time with each other.

The weekend had impressive and touching interpersonal moments: There was loud cheering, endless joy and generous support – all signs of true sportsmanship, characterised by respect, fairness and community. Some of the award ceremonies even came with a few tears of joy.

A successful weekend full of good company, exercise and active inclusion – one that the student volunteers will definitely remember for a long time.