Final answer:
In the opening and closing ceremonies of major sporting events, such as the Olympic Games, the shield is typically carried by athletes who represent their countries and stand for national pride.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the opening and closing ceremonies of major sports events, like the Olympic Games, the shield or flag is often carried by a representative group of athletes from the participating countries. This tradition is a part of the ceremonial protocol and symbolizes the athletes' role in the games, as well as national pride and unity. Although attendees like officials, volunteers, and spectators play different roles in sporting events, it is the athletes who are traditionally given the honor of carrying the shield.
Throughout history, these ceremonies have been an opportunity for athletes to represent their respective nations and for moments of silent resistance or political gestures as seen in previous Olympic Games, where athletes like Tommie Smith and John Carlos used the platform for human rights demonstrations.