Karate refereeing course sharpens practical readiness

MUSCAT APRIL 11
The Oman Karate Committee organised the second foundation refereeing course at the training hall of Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Bausher on April 10 and 11, with the participation of a number of male and female referees. The programme came as part of the committee’s efforts to raise the efficiency of national refereeing cadres and keep pace with the latest international updates in the sport.
The course was preceded by an expanded meeting between the committee, coaches and referees, during which the main amendments to the 2026 international refereeing law were reviewed. The programme combined theoretical and practical sessions, including explanations of refereeing rules, discussions of different match situations, and field applications simulating real competition scenarios to enhance decision-making under pressure.

International referee Hilal al Abdali, member of the referees committee and technical committee, said the pre-course meeting, chaired by Dr Faisal al Maawali, Chairman of the Oman Karate Committee, marked an important step at the start of the committee’s new term. He said the meeting introduced the new members, outlined the committee’s plans and programmes for the 2026 season, and allowed coaches and referees to raise observations and questions.
Al Abdali added that the session also included a detailed explanation of the 2026 international refereeing amendments, noting that such courses play an important role in refining referees and updating coaches and players on the latest rules, which in turn supports stronger participation in local and international events. He said the course attracted broad participation from coaches, referees and some players, with many praising its technical value.
Hilal al Kindi, coach at Shotokan Karate Centre, said the activities offered a valuable opportunity to understand the committee’s future direction and follow the latest refereeing developments. He noted that the second day focused on practical application after the earlier theoretical component, helping participants translate concepts into direct on-mat practice. He added that awareness of refereeing changes also helps coaches better prepare athletes for competition.
Shaima Baamer, referee and coach at Shotokan Karate Centre, said the course strengthened her understanding of refereeing basics and gave participants a deeper view of bouts from the perspective of both referee and judge. She said the programme, which followed an earlier stage held in December, further boosted her ambition to leave a mark in karate.
For his part, referee Matar al Kindi said the course reflected the committee’s efforts to develop both the technical and refereeing sides of the sport. He added that Omani karate has made visible progress in recent years, with the improvement reflected in results and medal achievements at the Asian level.