Over 1,600 volunteers have been assisting the organisers and athletes participating in the ongoing 5^th Asian Beach Games (ABG5) in Da Nang.

Some volunteers assisting Korean volleyball players

Since mid-July, the municipal Department of Foreign Affairs has been selecting students from local universities and junior colleges to serve as volunteers at ABG5.  They were required to have a smart appearance, good communication skills, and a basic knowledge of the different kinds of sports and the culture of the participating countries.  Top priority was given to students with English, Japanese, Chinese, Korean or Thai language skills.

At the competition venue for the beach volleyball, 33 volunteers have been assigned to give guidance to the players, help them with their sports equipment, and give explanations about the competition rules.

Nguyen Van Huy Cuong, a final year student from the Volleyball Training Faculty of the city’s University of Sports and Physical Training, remarked “Serving ABG5 has given me a good opportunity to learn about how international professional volleyball players play, as well as understand more about the different cultures, the sport’s disciplines, and teamwork spirit.”

In addition, 41 another volunteers are responsible for providing the necessary information for the athletes, whilst 130 others are helping the judges observe and keep the scores during the competition.

The local Youth Union has bought 300 hand-shaken drums and 1,400 plastic cheering sticks for volunteers to create a vibrant atmosphere at the competition venues.

Mr Phan Duc Hau, the leader of a cheerleader group, said that local cheerleaders have made every effort to fulfil their assigned tasks despite the recent hot weather.  He noted that their enthusiasm will help to ensure the success of the international sports event, and advertise the city’s beautiful image to international friends.