With one year to go until the Ontario Summer Games come to London, the call for volunteers has officially been put out.
More than 500 volunteers will be needed when the competition that pits the province’s top young athletes against one another comes to the city from August 1 to August 4, 2024. Volunteer roles for the games will range from accreditation, security, sport and event operations, transportation, and opening ceremonies.
People interested in pitching in for the Summer Games can now pre-register to be notified when volunteer registration opens, Tourism London said in a statement issued Tuesday. Volunteer expression of interest can be made online at www.london2024.ca/en/volunteer.
The return of the multi-sport event to London has been a longtime coming after the city's scheduled hosting duties in 2020 and 2021 were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. London previously hosted the games in 2018, 2004, 1996, and 1975.
"After the challenges of the past years with postponements and cancellations, we are determined to make this event a resounding success and provide a memorable experience for all participants," said Mayor Josh Morgan. "With the unwavering support of our community and the dedication of our volunteers, we look forward to showcasing the spirit of sportsmanship and athletic excellence that defines the Ontario Summer Games.”
For the first time ever, flag football and women's baseball will be among the 18 sports to be played. Men's softball, which made its debut at the 2022 games will also be played.
Venues for the events are still being finalized and will be announced in the coming weeks, according to Tourism London.
The games will bring roughly 3,500 teenage athletes, as well as coaches and officials, to the city over the four day period and deliver an estimated economic impact of $5 million for London.
