MUSCAT: The inaugural historical edition of FIH Men’s and Women’s Hockey5s World Cup (Sultanate of Oman 2024) began officially after a glittering opening ceremony in Sustainability City office in Muttrah. HH Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham al Said, Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth, presided over the opening ceremony in presence of ministers, top dignitaries, officials and Dato Tayyab Ikram, President of FIH.
The world class event will start at Hockey Oman Stadium with 2024 FIH Women’s Hockey5s World Cup matches starting on Wednesday. As many as 32 teams including 16 teams each in women's and men’s competitions are taking part in this showpiece event.
The women’s competitions will kick off on Wednesday and will run until Saturday. Pool A comprised Fiji, Malaysia, Netherlands and the hosts Sultanate of Oman while Pool B featured Australia, South Africa, Ukraine and Zambia teams.
India are clubbed in Pool C alongside Namibia, Poland and USA teams while Pool D grouped New Zealand, Paraguay, Thailand and Uruguay teams. The Omani women players will commence their campaign in the tournament with a match against Malaysia. The event will kick off with a match between Australia and Ukraine. Then, South Africa will meet Zambia while Fiji will face Netherlands.
Historical edition
The opening ceremony started with a speech delivered by FIH President Tayyab Ikram. He welcomed everyone to the first ever FIH Men’s and Women’s Hockey5s World Cup (Sultanate of Oman 2024).
“This is the time we have been waiting all to begin the historical first edition of FIH Men’s and Women’s Hockey5s World Cup in the beautiful city of Muscat. I am so excited to see the action take place in the new 'hockey' arena which was built recently to host this event and some major events in the near future,” he said.
“A stunning venue is ready to host the outstanding, tough and excited matches. The anticipation and excitement leading up to this moment has been intense. I am assured that the event over the next couple of days is not going to disappoint anybody,” the world hockey chief said.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Oman Hockey Association and the organising committee, as well as the authorities of the Sultanate of Oman, for their hard work in preparing for this global event. Oman has emerged as one of our key partners. Through hosting successful events at the regional, Asian and international levels, the country has positioned itself as a key player within the hockey family. I would also like to take the opportunity to thank the officials, volunteers and staff who have worked tirelessly to deliver a professionally organised event. The FIH Men’s and Women’s Hockey5s World Cup is the first edition which will be running in few days in Oman,” he said
“The FIH is committed to continuously improve future events and show support to all the national hockey associations around the world. It is truly inspiring to see the passion and dedication of all the teams and players here. Let the FIH Men’s and Women’s Hockey5s World Cup begin,” he signed off.
Oman in World Sports map
Dr Marwan bin Juma al Juma, OHA Chairman, said Oman Hockey Association is privileged to host the mega event.
“Oman Hockey is pleased and privileged to host the first edition of FIH Men’s and Women’s Hockey5s World Cup (Sultanate of Oman 2024). This international event confirms the position of the Sultanate of Oman in the world sports map. This world class event is a milestone in the sports field of Oman as the tournament is classified among the largest sporting events held in the country. Furthermore, this tournament will not only be a sporting event, but it will be an exceptional opportunity for all participants from different parts of the world to learn more about Oman and its relevant culture, advanced development which has made in various fields," Dr Marwan said.
“I would like to take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth and special thanks to His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham al Said for his invaluable support in making this event a reality. Additionally, I would like to express my gratitude to other government, commercial partners, and organising committees who have played a vital role in meeting all requirements and ensuring the successful of the global event,” he said.
During the event, the chief guest and distinguished guests were treated to a traditional Omani welcome performance. Then, the audience watched the entrance of the participating teams to the stage. Then, Oman’s former player Tarmah bin Abdul Hussain al Ajmi raised the flag of the tournament high as an official indication of the event to start. Some musical shows were displayed besides presenting the development of Oman hockey with the history of this sport as pioneering sport in Oman. The event concluded with a dance show with the official song of the tournament made by Omani youth team.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
