Volunteers
Volunteers have been on duty at every Werkself home game in domestic and international competitions since February 2008. The volunteer project was originally meant to be limited to period during the renovation works at the BayArena. But within a very short time, the tireless helpers proved to be indispensable. The volunteers have long since ceased to be a temporary project and are now a regular part of those on duty for Bayer 04 on every matchday.
Volunteers carry out their work on a purely voluntary basis; Bayer 04 is a matter close to their heart. First and foremost, the volunteers should make the visitors' stay at the stadium as pleasant as possible. Therefore, helpfulness, team spirit and reliability as well as an open and communicative manner are basic requirements for a successful assignment. Due to the varying kick-off times of the Bundesliga on weekends or European competitions during the week, time flexibility is important. Knowledge of foreign languages is welcome, as this always helps to make our international guests feel at home. Therefore, native speakers from Mexico, Croatia, Russia or Turkey can be found among the volunteers. However, mastering a foreign language is not a hiring criterion.
Although volunteers work without pay, they also get something back for their work. The main focus here is on the social component. For example, they can experience the game up close and personal together, except for the first and last five minutes, are catered for in the stadium and can reflect on the game long after the final whistle over a drink in their own volunteer room in the heart of the BayArena. They get a look behind the scenes and play their part in making the stadium visit an unforgettable experience for the guests. Furthermore, they receive a complete work uniform from the official outfitter and there are always events such as the Christmas party or away trips that promote the community. The focus is always on fun, togetherness and the love of football.
Range of duties
Team East
For many stadium visitors, the volunteers on Bismarckstraße are the first point of contact with the club. In particular, visitors traveling to the BayArena by public bus or shuttle bus meet our volunteers upon arrival at the stadium. The main task of the volunteers on the East Team is to provide the right answers to spectators’ questions and to help manage the flow of spectators. To this end, the volunteers are stationed at various locations near the East Service Counter as well as in the circulation area both inside and outside the stadium.
Team West
Unlike Team East, the volunteers on this team are mainly found inside the stadium and in the surrounding area. The volunteers are active on and in front of the Piazza and are there to provide guests with advice and assistance with any questions they may have.
Field team
The volunteers on the away team are not stationed directly at the BayArena. These volunteers are stationed at the Dhünn Bridge in the direction of the Leverkusen-Mitte train station, near the stadium corner and under the highway overpass. There, they greet visiting fans as they get off the buses and answer any questions they may have about the BayArena. This service is greatly appreciated by our away fans.
Indoor team
The volunteers on the indoor team begin their duties three hours before kickoff and take on important tasks that take place directly on and around the field: They place the advertising rugs, set up the commentary table, lay out the center circle mat, and assist with various promotional activities organized by the sponsors. During the game, the volunteers on the field crew place the balls around the field and ensure that the promotional mats are positioned correctly. After the game, the field crew sets up the flashboards for interviews.
Team Airdancer
The volunteers are there to help with the emotions in the stadium from the sidelines, too! The so-called Airdancers are positioned along the field on the east side and, as eye-catching attractions during player introductions and when the Werkself scores, they help create a great atmosphere. The Airdancer team is also part of the indoor team and assists with its tasks.
Press team
The press team is stationed in the upper deck on the west side. On the one hand, the volunteers are there to assist spectators with general questions. On the other hand, they serve as points of contact for media representatives in the press box. Before the game, they test the screens and distribute the team lineups to the journalists. In the winter, they provide blankets for those in the press box. In the event of technical issues, the volunteers are also the first point of contact for media representatives.
Flag Choreography Team
As part of the Flag Choreography Team, volunteers assist with the entrance ceremony before kickoff. They help coordinate the flag choreography in the lead-up to the game and ensure that, once on the field, everyone is in the right place at the right time to welcome the Werkself.
Inclusion/Fanwelt Team
The Inclusion/Fanwelt Team assists fans with questions regarding the Fanwelt and access. In addition, the volunteers on this team are available to answer any other questions. They also proactively escort fans with disabilities to the Fanwelt. During the game, they provide support in the wheelchair section and help distribute blankets, cups, and other supplies.
