Volunteering at the 2024 FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament as ESBS students
Two students from the Master’s International Sports Management program at the European Sports Business School, Carlos Díaz and Diego Kebork, recently shared their enriching experiences as volunteers at the 2024 FIBA basketball Olympic Qualifiers, shedding light on the behind-the-scenes efforts that make such high-profile events successful.
We interviewed both students so they could let us know about their experience as volunteers, the importance of their role and what they learned at this tournament.
Carlos Díaz: The critical role of accreditations
Carlos was responsible for accreditations, a role that required a keen understanding of security and fluent English. He emphasized the importance of his role in ensuring that only authorized personnel could access various areas of the event.
His work provided him with a deep appreciation for the organizational aspects of large-scale events, highlighting the critical, yet often overlooked, role of accreditation in maintaining order and security. Carlos fondly recalls the mentorship of Moisés Mena, who guided him through the challenges of the role, leaving a lasting impact on his professional growth.
Diego Kebork: Marketing, Ticketing, and Accessibility
Diego, on the other hand, was supported the marketing and ticketing areas, where he was involved in activations during games and managed the area for Persons with Reduced Mobility. His experience required adaptability, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, offering him a comprehensive view of event management. Diego underscores the value of volunteering at such high-level tournaments, noting the opportunity it provided to expand his professional network and deepen his understanding of the sports industry.
This experience confirmed his passion for the field and provided invaluable insights into the complexities of event management.
The Value of Volunteering at events like these
As students at ESBS, both Carlos and Diego highlight the invaluable lessons and professional growth they gained from volunteering at this tournament. Their experiences underline the importance of such opportunities in shaping careers, offering hands-on learning and networking opportunities that are crucial in the sports industry. Through their roles, they not only contributed to the event’s success but also built a foundation for their future careers in sports business.
