Reflections on Volunteering at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games by Mouhamadou Moustapha Sall
Mouhamadou Moustapha Sall, a dedicated volunteer from Senegal currently residing in the United States, had the esteemed opportunity to serve at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. In a detailed article for Insidethegames, he reflects on his enriching experience during this prestigious international sporting event.
Over the course of two weeks, Mr. Sall collaborated with the Sports Presentation Team at the Paris South Arena, a remarkable venue that showcased four sports: handball, volleyball, weightlifting, and table tennis. This exceptional environment was supported by the tireless efforts of over 2,000 volunteers, contributing significantly to the event’s overall success.
This volunteering experience proved to be invaluable to Mr. Sall’s professional development as a sports and event manager. Having previously been involved in numerous international and continental multi-sport events, he served recently as an Event Supervisor for the FIBA3X3 U23 Nations League competitions in Mexico City.
The journey commenced on November 16, 2023, when Mr. Sall was selected to be part of the Paris 2024 Volunteer Programme. He noted that the online training and preparatory sessions were meticulously organized, equipping all volunteers with the necessary tools to excel in their roles. The extensive support provided throughout the Games, including reliable transportation and daily briefings, served as motivation for the volunteers to perform their absolute best alongside the athletes and spectators.
Among the most memorable moments for Mr. Sall was witnessing the joy and pride radiating from both his colleagues and the athletes, particularly during the exhilarating volleyball final where the French men’s team clinched the gold medal. The atmosphere during this event was electrifying, creating a distinctly unique experience that he will cherish.
Mr. Sall’s involvement in the Olympics is not new, as he previously participated in the London 2012 Olympic Games, where he worked with the Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) on the Africa Village Project. Furthermore, he represented the JSPORTS brand, a prominent name in sports equipment across Africa, in support of 16 African National Olympic Committees and Paralympic Committees.
These formative experiences kindled his passion for sports management, ultimately inspiring him to establish his sports consultancy firm, SIREM SPORTS, where he has been a trailblazer in promoting FIBA 3×3 basketball in Senegal. Additionally, during the COVID-19 pandemic, he initiated the Africa Talk Sports web conferences to bolster the African Olympic and Paralympic Movement.
Reflecting on his time at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Mr. Sall expressed his pride in the crucial role played by all volunteers in ensuring the success of the event. Their collective efforts have created enduring memories and a lasting legacy. He emphasized that volunteering for the Paris 2024 Games was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that fostered connections with individuals from across the globe, facilitated skill development, and provided invaluable experience.
Mr. Sall extends his sincere gratitude to all members of the Paris 2024 Organising Committee, particularly the volunteers department, acknowledging that this shared experience will be cherished forever.
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