I decided to apply to become an Olympic volunteer, or Games-maker, as they’re known in the business, a couple of years ago.  I’d thoroughly enjoyed my experience working at Sydney Olympics and figured it would be great to be a part of our home Games.  I sent off my application and hoped that I’d be offered a role using my languages.  I was chuffed to bits to be offered a role as an NOC Assistant (National Olympic Committee Assistant) as I knew it would be a much more exciting opportunity than many other roles, as I’d be working at the Village itself and therefore would have the chance to meet athletes and have access to many sporting venues.

Although the training has been time-consuming and has involved taking annual  leave and the Games-time commitment is in itself also intense, I believe it will be a wonderful experience that I shall recall (if my pickled brain allows it) for years to come.