Athletes are showcasing their talent at the Newfoundland and Labrador Summer Games in Corner Brook this week, while a dedicated team of over 300 volunteers in orange shirts are diligently supporting the event behind the scenes.

Wednesday marked the transition day at the Games, as the next wave of athletes arrived in the city. Sports activities are set to resume later in the evening.

Duane Huxter was immersed in preparing merchandise for the athletes at the Corner Brook Civic Centre, where he has been meticulously folding t-shirts for over a week. Reflecting on his continuous dedication, Huxter shared with CBC News that what he initially perceived as a brief task turned into an extended commitment, keeping him away from home since last Monday.

The volunteers play a multifaceted role at the Games, engaging in various tasks such as liaising with local authorities to coordinate logistics and ensuring the smooth operation of the games at different venues.

Dave Campbell, the games director at SportNL and a member of the Games host committee, emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving success. He highlighted the invaluable contribution of volunteers, emphasizing that events like these heavily rely on volunteer support.

Coordinating apparel for 10 teams presents a significant challenge, but Huxter emphasized the importance of creating lasting memories for the athletes. While his involvement in events like the opening ceremonies has been modest, he finds fulfillment in supporting athletes to perform at their best.

Huxter expressed his commitment to ensuring that athletes leave the event with a positive experience, despite the physical demands of the work. Witnessing the athletes proudly donned in their team colors during the opening ceremonies, he found gratification in knowing that his efforts in preparing the merchandise contributed to their sense of pride and representation.

The collective effort of volunteers in making the Games a success was evident, reflecting the dedication and commitment of the community in supporting the event and the participating athletes.