The Orkney 2025 International Island Games will welcome athletes from 24 islands from across the world to compete in 12 sports, including Archery, Athletics, Badminton, Cycling, Football, Golf, Gymnastics, Lawn Bowls, Sailing, Squash, Swimming, and Triathlon.
The Games are set to be the largest event the island has held, and the large cohort of volunteers from across the island and further afield will assist in a variety of roles from supporting the events and logistics, to visitor welcoming teams and event Games mascots!
There are many benefits to volunteering within sport, and without volunteers, events like Orkney 2025 simply would not be possible. Volunteering at the games offers a unique chance to be at the heart of the action, meet fascinating people from around the world, and create lasting memories.
Liz Flett, Volunteer Coordinator for Orkney 2025, said:
“It’s fantastic to see so many people pulling together to
make this an amazing event. Orcadians take great pride in where they live, so everyone wants to make sure that it puts Orkney on the map and those attending remember the Games in years to come.
“Volunteering can come in many different forms, and it can be hugely beneficial for your mental well-being and health and helps you get to know others within the community.
“There is real community spirit, and everyone is pulling together. We have sports people, past and present, parents and families of competitors helping, as well as a large number of people from the retired population.”
It's hoped the Games will generate an interest in volunteering within the sports after the event finishes, as Liz says:
“The Games are bound to have a spin-off. I would hope that the volunteers are inspired to carry on their volunteering journeys and engage with some of our local sports clubs throughout the rest of the year in some capacity.
“There are various volunteer roles and opportunities out there to cater to your interests, skillset, and time commitments, and any club would appreciate any support, no matter how big or small.”
Confirmed volunteers have been sharing their experience and advice on why they wanted to volunteer.
Mike Lucas, a School Crossing Patrol and volunteer, shares his enthusiasm:
“Volunteering has always played a major role in my life. Being able to help people who need it is a truly rewarding experience, and with my previous career as an army medic, working with organisations like SSAFA, providing support to personnel, veterans, and their families in their time of need is something I cherish.
"As humans, we look to help people the way we would like to be helped. From my current work in the school crossing patrol, seeing the kids run by and try to high-five the stop sign, to welcoming in the flocks of visitors to next year’s games. The human interaction means the most to me. I’m already struggling to contain the excitement, picturing the first waves of visitors pile in, many of them would never have been to Orkney before, and getting to experience the true sense of community we have here will be wonderful.
"I encourage everyone to get involved, regardless of your interest in sports – there’s something for everyone!”
Robin Nicolson, a Driving Instructor and volunteer, first wanted to become a volunteer for the Games as a way to reconnect with sports. Having always been involved in football and rugby throughout his life, he was drawn in by the scale of the games and the opportunity to immerse himself in the heart of competition again.
Recognising Orkney’s deep love for sport, particularly with the younger generation, Robin said:
“Neither rain, sleet, nor snow stops them from being out and embracing the elements, pursuing the sports they love. This strengthens the real sense of community we have here, which we’re excited to share with visitors from all walks of life next year.”
For Lead General Practice Pharmacist at NHS Orkney and games volunteer, Lyndsay Steel, volunteering has always played an important role in her life. Lyndsay volunteered as a Pharmacist at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games in 2014 and has been a volunteer gymnastics coach for Orkney Gymnastics Club for the last five years. She said:
“My passion for sport and community engagement drives me to give back, inspired by the positive experiences and support I've received throughout my life. Volunteering at the Orkney 2025 International Island Games is an exciting opportunity to engage with the community, build friendships, and inspire young athletes in Orkney."
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