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As the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup – India enters its final stages, the AFC takes a peak behind the scenes and pays tribute to the volunteers who have helped in the smooth running of the continental showpiece.
With the tournament expanded to 12 teams and numerous SOPs in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the dedication of the volunteers has been exemplary.
Volunteers Akankshya Bhuyan and Devika Nair are just two of many who have played a major part in the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup – India.
Bhuyan’s responsibilities range from pre-match preparations to assisting the doctors after a match.
Bhuyan, 22, said she has thoroughly enjoyed her time as a volunteer which has seen her meet so many different people from across the continent – all with the shared aim of delivering the best possible tournament.
“I am a competitions and anti-doping volunteer,” said Bhuyan. “Before the teams arrive, I’ll prepare their dressing rooms and check the referees’ room, so that they are clean and sanitised, as well as the doping room. Post match, we take players for their anti-doping test.
“It has gone really well. This is my first event and it’s really exciting as this is on the world stage, and not just at the national level.
“Since it’s an Asian event, there is a mix of different cultures with people coming together in one spot trying to work together. Even though we don’t know each other, once we start working together it builds that connection.”
Based in Pune, Bhuyan’s assignment will end when the Shree Shiv Sports Complex comes to a close after Thursday’s semifinals, and she wants to continue lending a helping hand in the future.
“I have enjoyed the matches. Our last Group Stage match between Japan and South Korea, was one that I absolutely enjoyed.”
“I absolutely would love to work in the football scene because I really like the working environment here. Everyone’s so energetic and happy, and actually happy to be working. If you’re happy working, you don’t actually work but enjoy what you’re doing.”
“Let’s not stop playing because of COVID, and do better towards hosting biomedical bubbles.”
Nair, 18, has a slightly different role in the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup – India as a competition volunteer.
Based in Mumbai, some of her responsibilities include looking after team services and fulfilling their requirements for pre-match, matchday and post match.
“My journey has been an eye opener where I have come across so many new areas in a tournament and still have so much more to learn,” said Nair. “This opportunity has made me look into other career possibilities.”
“I have learned how to communicate with people from different fields and coordinate with each other. The importance of time management is well registered and will always help me in the future.”
“I have always loved meeting new people and learning about their cultures and this platform has given me the chance to do so.”
Despite the competition being played under the blanket of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nair believes football should not stop.
“There are still so many factors we need to keep in mind during the tournament – like the coordination with the bubble and non-bubble management without the risk of infection.”
“Making sure that everyone is safe and even if someone has contracted the virus, there are protocols and safety measures to ensure the wellbeing of all.”
“What’s missing are the football fans but then again, this was a decision made for the safety of all.”
