A Dream Assignment: Eiffel Tower Stadium

For an exceedingly long time, I have had a big dream: to be part of the Olympic Games. Why? To me, they are the greatest sports festival in the world. It is a time when athletes from so many countries come together, highlighting sports that often do not get much media attention. The dedication and passion of the athletes are palpable, and these emotions resonate not only with the athletes but also with the spectators and all the staff involved in the Games.

Since becoming an athlete at that level was not in the cards for me, and I am quite satisfied with my professional career, volunteering seemed like the perfect way to be involved. So, a year and a half ago, I applied for the volunteer program for Paris 2024. The application process was rigorous, and competition was fierce, with 350,000 people from around the globe vying for a spot. When I received the news that I was one of the 45,000 selected, I was ecstatic. It felt like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of something truly special.

The Olympic volunteer program offers a wide range of roles, and assignments are determined based on the needs of the Games. There are many ways to contribute, from ushering spectators to assisting with coordination and supporting the athletes' teams. I was assigned to the Press Operations department, specifically to the 'Photo' team. This team is crucial as it supports the photographers who capture the iconic moments of the Games that the world sees.

The 'Photo' team ensures that photographers have everything they need to do their jobs effectively, from providing access to key areas to managing the workflow around the venues. We help them get the best shots, whether it is a stunning action photo of an athlete or a breathtaking view of the venue.

One of the most exciting aspects of my assignment was the venue. I was placed at the beach volleyball venue, housed in the specially constructed Eiffel Tower Stadium. This temporary arena is located right on the Champs de Mars, with the Eiffel Tower as a stunning backdrop. The location alone adds an incredible dimension to the experience—there is something magical about watching beach volleyball matches with one of the world's most iconic landmarks in the background.

Volunteering at the Olympics has been an exhilarating experience. The energy in the stadium is infectious. Fans from all over the world come together, creating a vibrant and diverse atmosphere. The athletes' performances are awe-inspiring, highlighting not only their skills but also their resilience, especially when competing under challenging conditions like the intense heat, which sometimes reached up to 45 degrees Celsius.

In my role, I spend 6-7 hours per shift at the edge of the court, ensuring that everything runs smoothly for the photographers. This includes managing their access to different shooting locations, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring they have the support they need to capture the essence of the event. The work is intense but incredibly rewarding. Being part of the behind-the-scenes operations gives me a unique perspective on how much effort goes into making the Games successful.

There is a whole ecosystem of people working around the field: athletes, medical staff, referees, TV crews, sound technicians, announcers, DJs, and photographers. Each group plays a vital role in the overall production, and it all comes together like a well-oiled machine, thanks to the coordination between the Paris 2024 staff and volunteers. It is amazing to see how everyone contributes to the larger picture.

On my days off, I have made the most of my time by exploring other events.I had the chance to attend the athletics competitions at the Stade de France and discover freely accessible events such as the cycle racing or the champions park at Trocadéro, where the atmosphere was just as electrifying. Seeing athletes push the limits of human performance is inspiring, no matter the sport.

I also visited the German House, a special venue for German athletes, fans, and officials. It was fascinating to see how each country has its own space to celebrate and support their teams. The German House even featured a fan zone, offering a unique way to connect with other fans and share in the excitement of the Games.

An Unforgettable Experience

Being a part of Paris 2024 has been an extraordinary journey. The experience has not only allowed me to be close to the action but also to be part of a global community that celebrates excellence, diversity, and unity. The friendships I have made and the stories I have been a part of will stay with me forever. It is incredibly exciting to have dived into this new world and contributed to making the Games a success. Being part of the Olympics, even in a supportive role, has given me a unique perspective on this grand event and has truly been an unforgettable journey.