TASHKENT: Omani handball continues its rise on the international stage as six referees—Sultan bin Saif Al Siyabi, Salem bin Saif Al Siyabi, Moatasem bin Mohammed Al Daghishi, Montaser bin Mohammed Al Daghishi, Lamia bint Khamis Al Saadia, and Al Zahraa bint Najib Al Maashriya—have officially received the continental refereeing badge. The recognition came after they successfully completed a rigorous course organized by the Asian Handball Federation in collaboration with the Uzbekistan Handball Federation, held from May 20 to 30.

This marks a significant milestone for the Oman Handball Association, particularly with the inclusion of a female refereeing team—a first in the nation’s history. The achievement reflects not only the growing professionalism of Omani referees but also a broader commitment to empowering women in sports and expanding their roles in continental competitions.

The referees underwent intense theoretical and practical training sessions, led by Emirati international lecturer Saleh Ashour, head of the Asian Federation’s Laws and Control Committee. Their performance has further elevated Oman’s standing in the Asian handball refereeing community, with the total number of Omani officiating crews now reaching five, including both international and continental badge holders.

Musa bin Khamis Al Balushi, Chairman of the Oman Handball Federation, praised the achievement, stating: “We affirm our commitment to developing national cadres and strengthening the Sultanate of Oman’s position in continental and international arenas. We promise them continued support to achieve further successes and continue the Omani refereeing journey in the game, which has been praised by the Asian and International Federations, as evidenced by the participation of international referees in various tournaments.”