Behind every match, every pitch, and every meeting at Gothia Cup, there are thousands of volunteers ensuring that the world's largest youth tournament can take place. Many of them return year after year, contributing their experience, knowledge, and a strong sense of pride for the tournament.

Starting this year, a total of 470 pins will be awarded to volunteers who have been involved for several years. These awards are a way to thank those individuals whose work creates the safety, joy, and community that characterize Gothia Cup.

Those who have participated for 3–4 years will receive a bronze award, those who have been part of Gothia Cup for 5–9 years will be awarded silver, while those who have been involved for 10–14 years will receive a gold pin. The most long-standing volunteers – those who have been part of the tournament for 15 years or more – will receive a diamond pin.

Madelene Skarland is one of this year's silver award recipients and has been part of Gothia Cup for eight unique years, from 2017 to 2026. As a volunteer in the GuestLounge at Heden, she is one of many who contribute every year to creating a welcoming environment for players, leaders, and visitors from all around the world.

– I have so many memories over the years. But really, you meet so many wonderful people, and that's probably the best part of Gothia Cup, says Madelene Skarland.

Another volunteer recognized for her long-standing commitment is Lotta Wennergren. She is one of this year's gold award recipients and has been part of Gothia Cup for 11 unique years, from 2013 to 2026. As a pitch host at Kviberg, she is one of many who contribute every year to ensuring that the matches take place and that participants have a safe and positive experience.

– The best thing about Gothia is that it feels like a family. My boys have all played in Gothia Cup, so the tournament means a lot to me, says Lotta Wennergren.

For many volunteers, Gothia Cup is about more than just a week of football. It's about the connections between people, developing in their roles, and together creating a tournament that means a lot to participants from around the world. We can't do Gothia Cup without the volunteers – their dedication, time, and willingness to help are crucial for the tournament to function.

With hundreds of volunteers returning year after year, Gothia Cup continues to be built by people who are passionate about the community – both on and off the field.