Seeb clinch eighth straight volleyball Shield

MUSCAT, FEB 24
Seeb Club reaffirmed their dominance over Omani volleyball, clinching the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth Shield 2025–26 title after defeating Al Bashayer in straight sets in a high intensity final at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Bausher. The triumph marks Al Seeb’s eighth consecutive Shield title in the 15th edition of the competition, underlining an era of sustained excellence.
Said bin Abdullah al Balushi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Labour for Human Resources Development, was the chief guest as the final unfolded before an energised crowd that witnessed a contest rich in momentum shifts and tactical battles.
Al Bashayer opened the first set with confidence, racing to a 3–0 lead through smart finishing by Yousuf al Abri and the powerful presence of Iranian professional Daniel. Yet Seeb responded swiftly, levelling at 3–3 before Saud al Maamari’s decisive serves shifted momentum. The set evolved into a nerve-tight duel, tied at 17–17 and later 22–22. Experience proved decisive as Mohammed al Maqbali capitalised on defensive hesitation to seal the set 25–23.
The second set reflected Seeb’s champion mentality. Although Al Bashayer briefly regained composure through disciplined blocking and transition play, the introduction of Younis al Amri added attacking depth for Seeb, Khamis al Jabri's sharp finishing and improved reception stability widened the gap to 14–10, and Seeb maintained control to close at 25–19.
The third set delivered renewed drama. Al Bashayer surged early, benefiting from minor lapses in concentration and the score reached a tense 18–18. However, composure under pressure once again separated the sides. Seeb’s defensive organisation and calculated serving disrupted Al Bashayer’s rhythm, allowing the champions to pull away and conclude the set 25–21, sealing a comprehensive 3–0 victory.
Khamis al Jabri stood out with 16 points, spearheading a cohesive team display marked by defensive discipline and tactical clarity.
MAJEES FINISH THIRD
In the third-place playoff, Majees secured a 3–1 win over Sohar (25–15, 25–21, 23–25, 25–20), demonstrating superior serving strength and structured defence to claim the bronze medal.
During the awards ceremony, officiated by Said al Balushi and Oman Volleyball Association Chairman Ibrahim al Maqbali, Majees received bronze medals, Al Bashayer silver and Seeb lifted the Shield amid jubilant celebrations.
Seeb head coach Jamal al Maamari described the triumph as “the result of long-term planning and institutional stability,” emphasising that the club’s 16 titles (all competitions) in eight seasons reflect a sustained sporting project rather than isolated success. “We have built a culture of winning and accountability. The players understand how to manage decisive moments,” he said.
Al Bashayer coach Sulaiman al Toobi acknowledged the fine margins, noting: “We prepared tactically and started strongly, but final was decided by details. Seeb’s experience in crucial phases made the difference.”
Captain Yousuf al Shukaili highlighted mental resilience as the key factor: “Every team aims to defeat the champion. Our responsibility is to remain composed when the pressure rises.”
With another Shield secured, Seeb’s dominance continues not merely as a statistic, but as a testament to a sustained culture of excellence shaping Omani volleyball’s modern era.