Volunteer duo from Stuttgart enjoy the experience

Image from EURO 2024 GmbH

Before the start of the tournament, Rika and Becky from Special Olympics Baden-Württemberg spoke to us about their preparations for the groundbreaking duathlon. Volunteering A program inspired by inclusiveness. Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023.

At the Euro 2024 matches in Stuttgart, 22-year-old Rika was responsible for welcoming spectators with disabilities, for example, escorting people in wheelchairs to their seats and distributing audio guides for people with visual impairments. At the same time, 20-year-old Becky supported Rika in her role. “Overall, our responsibilities lie in the areas of sustainability and social responsibility,” says Becky. “We are contributing to a more inclusive and sustainable event.”

Photo courtesy of Special Olympics Baden-Württemberg

While Rika competes in track and field, single and unified skating with the Special Olympics, this summer is all about soccer for her. Before the tournament began, her hope was to see Germany triumph and catch a glimpse of her favorite player, Thomas Müller, in action. While the host nation is now sadly out, Rika is no doubt still enjoying the unique experience. After her training began, she told us, “The volunteer kick-off meeting was great and I’m looking forward to making new friends and helping people with disabilities.” Becky added, “I’m really looking forward to the time I get to spend with Rika. Plus, I’m excited to meet so many different people from different countries. I’m also looking forward to the atmosphere.” And judging by the roar of the crowds at each match, we have no doubt she wasn’t disappointed on that front!

EURO 2024 GmbH said the inspiration for the dual volunteer initiative involving Rika and Becky came during the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023. The Berlin 2023 Host City Programme, which welcomed athletes to 200 locations across Germany, was the largest community inclusion project in Germany’s history, prompting the organisers of EURO 2024 to follow this example of inclusion.