A Fitting Finale: Volunteering on the Last Day of KWBL in Jeju
Our Spiritus team had another incredible opportunity to volunteer at the Korean Wheelchair Basketball League in Jeju — and this time, it was for the final day of the tournament. From the moment we stepped into the gymnasium, we were greeted by familiar faces: the same staff members, referees, and players we had worked with before. The venue once again amazed us with its towering ceilings, bright lights, and spacious seating, creating an atmosphere that felt more like a national championship than a local match.
Adapting to a Bigger Stage
Even though this was our second time volunteering, the experience felt new and different. With a larger court and more people, everything required greater focus and teamwork. Delivering score sheets meant sprinting across the gym. Wiping the floor during timeouts needed coordination and quick reflexes. Even handing out water bottles became more meaningful as we saw how much the athletes appreciated those small gestures of support.
Since it was the final day of the Jeju competition, our responsibilities didn’t end when the last whistle blew. We stayed behind to help organize the venue — folding chairs, moving desks, and even storing away the heavy basketball hoop. It was hard work, but seeing the gym return to its original state gave us a strong sense of accomplishment.
A Moment That Stayed With Us
One of the most memorable moments came after the final game, when we listened to a brief interview with one of the athletes. He expressed heartfelt gratitude not only to the fans who cheered them on but also to the volunteers who made the tournament possible. Hearing those words was deeply moving. It reminded us that our behind-the-scenes efforts, though they might seem small, create the environment that allows athletes to perform at their best.
More Than a Game — A Celebration of Community
What made this final day in Jeju so special was the atmosphere. The stands were filled with families, friends, and local supporters whose cheers echoed throughout the gym. It wasn’t just about basketball — it felt like a community celebration. Watching the players push themselves to the limit while the crowd rallied behind them was a powerful reminder of the unifying power of sports.
The Heart of Volunteering
As we walked out of the gym at the end of the day, tired but happy, we reflected on what this experience had taught us. Volunteering at KWBL reminded us that no matter how big or small the stage, the meaning of what we do never changes. Behind every great game, there’s a dedicated group of people working quietly to make it all possible — and we are proud to be part of that team.
Our time in Jeju strengthened our belief that service isn’t just about tasks. It’s about supporting others, building community, and contributing to something larger than ourselves. And that’s a lesson we’ll carry with us long after the final buzzer.
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