Applications for 2010 World Cup volunteers passed the 15,000 mark a week after the applications opened, FIFA's local organizing committee (LOC) said on Monday.

"We're delighted with the phenomenal response and the enthusiasm from people to play their part in helping to successfully deliver Africa's first FIFA World Cup," said LOC chief executive officer Danny Jordaan in a statement.

At least 15,042 applications had been received from volunteers in 133 countries and regions.

This included 482 applications to volunteer at the 2010 World Cup final draw in Cape Town, and a further 188 applications for the Football for Hope festival in Alexandra, Johannesburg.

The LOC would continue to accept applications until the August 31 closing date, after which the 15,000 volunteers needed would be chosen.

"We encourage people to continue to apply until the end of August to ensure we have the strongest possible volunteers to assist in all functional areas.

"Language support, in particular, will be very important, especially when it comes to assisting foreign fans..."

While the committee was happy with the initial response, Jordaan said the recruitment process was still open.

(Xinhua News Agency July 28, 2009)