MUSCAT : One of the most thrilling and highly anticipated events is soon to take place in Oman. Hockey Oman is preparing to launch the Hockey Oman International Women Tournament, which will be the first-ever tournament of its kind in the GCC region. Hockey Oman is developing women team from last several years and this upcoming 5 A side world cup they will represent Oman team.

Hockey Oman International Women Tournament, First Edition. An all-encompassing and inclusive movement for hockey is all set to take place in Muscat, on 24th & 25th & 26th of November 2023 at Sultan Qaboos Stadium Complex, Bowsher, Muscat. The official inauguration of the event is scheduled to be at 6.00 PM on 24th November 2023, though the matches start from 2 pm to 11 pm. We will have matches from 2 pm to 9 pm on 26th November ;2023. This women tournament is extra-special for Hockey Oman as Oman is going to host 5A side world cup in January 2024, since world cup is announced Hockey Oman is working on different level to meet all requirement of International Hockey Federation.

This tournament is being organized by the Oman Hockey Association, and it holds the distinction of being an approved event by the Asian Hockey Federation. In line with our commitment to promoting hockey and our extensive support for the sport in the Middle East, this event will feature the participation of five international teams. three teams from India, one team from Dubai and One team from Egypt. 3 teams will be playing participating from Oman.

There will be a tournament for girls of Schools. Oman players will be part of Oman’s National Women’s team and they will be playing against and other participating countries national players. Oman players are conducting camp from last several years for the upcoming 5’s Hockey world cup, which will be hosted by Muscat in 2024.

Hockey is fast gaining recognition and acceptance as a popular sport for young Omanis and Indians. Many well experienced international Players from Oman, India and Egypt representing various teams for this tournament. We are tremendously exhilarated and satisfied to be hosting a tournament with such magnitude.

This is a 5-a-side format game, with a maximum of 8 players in each team with two officials.8 teams will be participating in the tournament. Matches will be players as round robin league, these 8 teams will be play against all other teams. Top four team will qualify for semifinals. Teams reaching 1, & 4 2nd and 3rd positions will play cross-over matches to book their berth in the finals.

Dr Marwan Juma AL Juma, Chairman, Oman Hockey Association (OHA) and the brain behind bringing the prestigious Women international Hockey tournament to the Sultanate says, “We are all set for a successful and a high-caliber international tournament. It is a world-class event. And we are proud it is happening in Oman. We are confident that this event will provide a platform for foreign players to exhibit their skills in hockey to the Omani sports loving public.”

Mrs. Divya Narang, the spouse of H.E. Amit Narang, Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman, said, “In Indian sports, ‘Naari Shakti’ stands as a shining example of empowerment and excellence. Our women athletes have broken barriers and shattered stereotypes, proving their mettle on both the national and international stage. They inspire us with their dedication, talent, and hard work, showcasing that gender should never be a barrier to pursuing one’s dreams in sports.” Mrs Narang highlighted the Indian women’s hockey team’s recent triumph, which made them the Asian Champions Trophy winners two days ago.

Mrs Narang also congratulated Hockey Oman for their initiative to organise this tournament and wished Oman’s women’s hockey team the very best for their continued rise and success.

This tournament is supported by UTSC, a club registered in India. They are very active in developing sports in India and gulf countries. UTSC is of the firm belief that a sport of this nature for every young Omani and expatriate, calls in for recognition and support. The same can be said of cricket, football, basketball and other sports too. Keen to spot the talent, nurture him/her and provide with them with all the facilities and support be it training, development, coaching, on field guidance, financial or otherwise. Many UTSC members and supporters have done a lot of hard work and preparation for making this a successful event, proving that “Together we make a Difference”.

International teams: – Republicans, India, DON BOSCO Academy, Mumbai, Hustle Hockey Club, Fap Oman Team 1, Al Nahla Team 2, Magzi Team 3, Dubi Hockey Club, Egypt Team

Dr. Marwan Juma Al Juma (OHA), Wife of Ambassador of India to Sultanate of Oman will address the press conference.