Image: Antonio Bayer
Stefan Schmidt works at the social association B37 in Linz. He has been bidding since October of the previous year “Soccerforge” football training sessions for children – mostly on a voluntary basis. A conversation about the importance of sport and volunteering.
The number of volunteers is decreasing. Do you notice that in practice?
Yes. The “old generation”It is difficult to replace who, of course, was involved in clubs. The time factor is often the reason for this. And the verbal appreciation is unfortunately no longer so given. Much is taken for granted.
They won the honorary office award last year and at least received a thank you in this way.
I was very happy to be honored for my work in this way. Looking back, it’s important for me to say thank you again to everyone who voted for me.
How important is it to volunteer? As a child as well as as an adult?
I think volunteering is very important! New contacts are made, you work together towards a goal and are there for each other. It strengthens social cohesion. My motto: “do good, get good in return”.
With your talent factory “Soccerforge” work on the base almost every day.
It is important to me that children do more sports. That’s why I have “Soccerforge” founded. Meanwhile, I also cooperate with the Union Prambachkirchen, the association of my home community. Here I sponsor the offspring.
When children are looking for their true talent, they have to try many sports – this can be expensive for parents…
… but it is important to watch a lot of sports and to share sports with friends. As a volunteer trainer, I’m then asked to convey maximum fun to the children and young people. And that with the costs… Many parents spend money on unnecessary things like a new iPhone or a Playstation. A pair of shin guards or soccer shoes won’t make the herb fat any more. Sport is healthy, doesn’t cost the earth and the children are in good hands – and during this time away from mobile phones, TV or games consoles.
Support the volunteers in sports and say thank you!
Whether it’s a section head, a bus driver, a junior trainer or a scrubber: nominate your volunteer hero. All district winners and the state winner receive 1000 euros. nachrichten.at/ehrenamt
Source: Nachrichten
