Omani coach Jamal leads Al Ain to UAE Cup title

MUSCAT: Omani coach Jamal al Maamari produced a landmark moment in his coaching career after leading UAE side Al Ain to the UAE Cup volleyball title with a 3-1 win over Bani Yas in the final at Al Ain Club Hall on Friday.
The triumph marked Al Ain’s return to the podium after a long absence, with the club lifting the trophy for the first time since the 2017-2018 season.
Al Maamari’s success came as the culmination of an impressive spell since taking charge, during which he quickly built a balanced and disciplined side capable of competing on the biggest stages. The achievement also underlined his status as one of Oman’s most prominent coaching names on the Gulf scene.
Al Ain took the opening set 26-24 before Bani Yas levelled the match with an identical score. Al Ain then raised their level to claim the third set 25-17 and the fourth 25-19, sealing a deserved victory and highlighting the clear impact of Al Maamari’s technical work on the team.

The title capped an impressive run by Al Ain in the competition. The team had advanced from the quarterfinals by overcoming Shabab Al Ahli before producing an emphatic 3-0 victory over Al Jazira in the semifinal to book their place in the decider against Bani Yas.
The title carries added significance as it ended years away from major honours and restored Al Ain to the spotlight. It also highlighted the success of Al Maamari’s first professional coaching experience outside Oman, a stint already filled with notable results and silverware.
MAJOR MILESTONE
Speaking after the final, Al Maamari described the title as a major milestone in his coaching journey, especially as it came in his first overseas assignment and with a club of Al Ain’s stature. He said the achievement was the result of collective effort across the club, from the board and administrative staff to the technical and medical teams, as well as the players, who rose to the occasion.

Al Maamari added that one of the most striking aspects of the experience was the passion shared by everyone at the club, something that was clearly reflected in the team’s performances, particularly in the final played on home court in front of Al Ain supporters.
He also said the technical staff had carefully studied Bani Yas from all angles, analysing the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses before putting in place a game plan that the players executed with discipline and determination. He stressed that their commitment and fighting spirit proved decisive in the final.
Al Maamari concluded by thanking everyone who supported him during the experience, expressing hope that the achievement will open the door for more Omani coaches and players to pursue successful professional opportunities abroad.