TWG 2022 final thoughts from Jeff Co. Commissioner Joe Knight

The curtain has now closed on World Games 2022 in Birmingham. The venues are dismantling, the people from around the world are returning home and the post-game analysis of the Games will begin.  I am honored to have served on the WG Board of Directors and couldn’t be more proud of what we have done.

It has been an enormous undertaking to host over 3,500 athletes from 100 countries from all over the globe.  The time and effort to prepare for the events and the ceremonies has been years in the making. Getting the athletes to one of the 24 venues spread over two counties in a timely manner in order to meet a rigorous schedule of events has been Herculean. The athletes tell us it is the best venue in which they have competed in their careers.

I have often said leading up to the games that the athletes will come here to be judged in their sport and then, they will become the judges as to how well we did. The initial feedback I have received from those from afar is that we have exceeded their expectations. In short, the world’s spotlight was on Birmingham and we did not disappoint.

TWG 2022 was exciting, it was fun, it was HOT, but, it was absolutely great.  We have witnessed the tears of both triumph and defeat, and witnessed victory being snatched from the jaws of defeat in the  centuries old sport of Tug-of-War. The highlight reels are loaded with many memorable moments and outstanding achievements and Dancing Break has rocked the world. The memories of the Games will last a lifetime for those who attended. 

One of many things I am proud of is the unity of our cities, county, state and our corporate community who came together and worked in unison in order to produce the largest international event in the Southeast since the 1996 Olympics. Citizens came together as one to make this happen and we salute the men and women in Blue who have kept us safe. Well done by all.  

Another thing that stands out in my heart is the over 3300 volunteers who gave their time and energy to make these Games a success. They were enthusiastic, energetic and proud to be part of this historical moment. We simply could not have done this without them and say thank you so very much.

The final takeaway that I have was something that I heard over and over again from the athletes, the delegations and the visitors who were here. I can’t recall how many times I have heard “Everyone has been so nice.” However, that does not surprise me, because that is who we are.  I sincerely believe that “Hospitality” will be our biggest export from these games.

The impact on our community will be measured in the days ahead and the years to come.  We have sown the seed, done our best and when all is said and done, Birmingham and Jefferson County will be a shining star in the eyes of the world.  

--Submitted by Joe Knight, Jefferson County Commissioner