Rafal took part in the 6th edition of the European Universities Handball Championship in Rijeka, Croatia.

He tells us more about this great experience.

Can you briefly introduce yourself?

My name is Rafal Slon and I come from Kielce, Poland. I’m 22 years old and I’m studying at the Cracow University of Economics. My specialization is Tourism and Recreation at Faculty of Management. I am an active handball player and also a board member of University Sports Association at my university. I'm interested in geography, politics, and above all – sports. I also love to play football and tennis.

How did you learn about the European Universities Championships and about the volunteer program?

My colleague, Darius, was a volunteer few years ago during European Universities Table Tennis Championship in Italy. He told me this is a great opportunity to make new, interesting friendships with people from all around Europe. Soon after that I visited the EUSA website and read information about the volunteering program.  Then I prepared my profile and waited until the time comes to apply for champioships.

Why did you decide to apply as a volunteer?

How can be decision any different when you consider words: July – Croatia – Handball – Adriatic Sea – Partying, together in one sentence? I don’t think anyone would hesitate. For me it is all about great atmosphere and people that you meet. The next thing is that I wanted to check my orginizing skills during larger event than Polish Universities Championships, comprehend how it works, and than perhaps implement some ideas and solutions to our national championships.
Another important argument is that volunteers only have to pay for transportation to and from the city of the organizer. Accommodation and food is provided, so it really helps when it comes down to your budget. 

Photo: Pawel Balcerek

Did you like the event you took part in? Did you have a good time as a volunteer?

I really enjoyed Handball Championships despite the fact that I was the only foreign volunteer during this event. At the beginning I found it a bit difficult but my fears were quickly allayed as everyone was helpful to me and I could ask about anything at any time and still be given answers. I had a really great time with other volunteers and players. Although we didn’t spent as much time together as I wanted, I managed to know some of them very well and we still keep in touch (mainly via Facebook). Things I will definitely remember for a long time are the party on the ship “Nina”. I also had great fun, especially in the evenings, with guys from Kalisz and Katowice, and of course with girls from Lublin.

What were your tasks during this event?

I was given the function of attach of the University of Vincent Pol from Lublin, Poland. It means that I spent most of the time with girls from the team and team officials. I was responsible for communication between my team and organizers.  Everyday I had to check at Info Point, if there is any information left for me and my team and then go with ladies to watch their games. Several times a day I spoke to team officials about their needs and schedule and  I was also responsible for booking the gym and sport hall for trainings, as well as many other things that occurred during the day. To sum up I have to say that my days were a bit busy, but I really enjoyed being helpful for my team.

What are the good points of being a volunteer on EUC?

When you work as a volunteer, when you are young, you can gain priceless experience that may have great impact on your further life, as you learn how to react in different situations.  During such an event like EUC you can meet a lot of people from many European countries and get some knowledge about their culture, lifestyles and habits.  And don’t forget about partying – this is what people dream about after finishing their games and I think that there are no better ways to socialize and have a great time with the whole event community.

Any other comments? Anything more you want to share to convince people they should go as volunteer on European Universities Championships?

It is all about travelling, meeting people, watching games and facing challenges. I don’t think that any person would ever regret joining the volunteer program offered by EUSA.

Thanks a lot Rafal for your involvment and we hope you'll take part in future EUSA events!