By Chandler Brandes, Swimming World College Intern
Volunteers, which are often our parents and loved ones, have been involved with our sport for as long as we have. While they don’t spend hours upon hours training like we do, they spend more time than we realize behind-the-scenes making sure our meets run smoothly.
Here are five ways to thank volunteers…
1. Be Respectful.
We should have respect for everyone, and that includes volunteers. Don’t get mad at the official who disqualifies you; they’re just doing their job. If the timer’s stopwatch didn’t work, don’t be angry at them; it wasn’t their fault. If you’re an older swimmer on your team, set a good example for the younger kids who idolize you. Having respect is a true testament to your character, and you don’t want to be that swimmer who has a bad attitude. Volunteers are donating their time and energy to help us, so have respect to other swimmers, coaches, the facilities, and volunteers.
Photo Courtesy: Peter H. Bick
2. Clean Up.
When we’ve swum our last race of the meet, all we want to do is get off the pool deck and into a hot shower. Just like swimmers often “forget” to cool down (sorry, Coach), we often forget to pick up all of our trash and clean up our area on the bench. After the pool deck has cleared of swimmers and coaches, volunteers are left to pick up our messes. After your next meet, make sure your team’s bench is completely cleared of all garbage. Pick up that empty Gatorade bottle even if it’s not yours; helping out can make volunteers’ days just a little bit easier.
3. Introduce Yourself.
You often see the same volunteers at every meet you go to, and sometimes those same officials or timers volunteer at college meets. Don’t be afraid to go and introduce yourself to a one of the volunteers, whether they’re associated with your team or not. The swimming community and the atmosphere on a pool deck is positive and energetic, and the more people you know, the better. Often times, they love getting to know the swimmers better, and taking time out of your day to introduce yourself or spark a conversation can make their day a little brighter.
Photo Courtesy: Christopher Rattray
4. Show your appreciation.
While volunteers don’t do it for recognition, it’s nice to show them that their hard work never goes unnoticed. Make cards for the parents on your team who have donated countless hours running the concession stand or recognize them at the end-of-season banquet for the work they’ve done timing and officiating. Our parents and loved ones volunteer because they love and support us and our sport, and even a small gesture can go a long way.
5. Say “Thank You.”
Actually saying the words “thank you” can mean a lot to a volunteer. Thanking the timer in your lane after your race would make their day and show them that their work doesn’t go unnoticed. If you see an official on your way out the door, stop and say thank you. It’s nice to let them know that they’re appreciated, so take the time to thank them for donating their time and energy. They don’t have to do it, but they do it because they want to, and we couldn’t do it without them.
Without volunteers, our meets would never be able to happen. Their hard work doesn’t go unnoticed, and we shouldn’t take their efforts for granted. On behalf of all swimmers and divers, thank you!
USA Swimming has launched a campaign to recognize our terrific volunteers all month long! Honor all of the volunteers in your life this March by snapping their photo and posting with #1VolunTeam on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram. Tag @usaswimming and @swimmingworldmag too!
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