Before the tournament began, Reka and Beeke of Special Olympics Baden-Württemberg spoke to us about their preparation for the ground-breaking tandem volunteering programme which was inspired by the inclusivity of Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023.
At the EURO 2024 matches in Stuttgart, Reka, aged 22, had responsibility for greeting spectators with disabilities, for example, accompanying people with wheelchairs to their seats and handing out audio guides to people with visual impairments. Meanwhile, Beeke, aged 20, supported Reka in her role. Beeke notes, “Overall, our responsibilities are in the areas of sustainability and social responsibility. We contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable event.”
While Reka competes in athletics and both solo and Unified skiing with Special Olympics, this summer is all about football for her. Before the tournament began, her hope was to see Germany triumph and catch a glimpse of her favourite player, Thomas Müller, in action. While the host nation has sadly been knocked out now, Reka has with no doubt still relished this unique experience. After her training began, she told us, “The kick off meeting for volunteers was great and I’m looking forward to making new friends and helping people with disabilities.” Beeke added, “I am most looking forward to the time I can spend with Reka. Additionally, I am excited to meet many different characters from various nations. I am also looking forward to the atmosphere.” Judging by the roars of the crowds at each match, we have no doubt that she has not been disappointed on this front!
EURO 2024 GmbH have stated that inspiration for the tandem volunteering initiative which Reka and Beeke are taking part in came during the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023. The Host Town Programme at Berlin 2023, which welcomed the athletes to 200 locations across Germany, was the largest communal inclusion project in Germany’s history, motivated EURO 2024 organisers to follow this example of inclusivity.
