AHMED AL KAABI
MUSCAT, SEPT 23
The Oman Skate Ball Tournament 2026 got under way at the Ibri Sports Club Indoor Hall on Wednesday under the auspices of Tahir bin Mabkhout al Junaibi, Governor of Al Dhahirah.
The ceremony was attended by Dr Ahmed Hassan Taelib, President of the World Skate Ball Federation; Eng Faisal bin Mubarak al Dosari, Vice-President of the federation; Eng Saud bin Nasser al Aufi, Chairman of the Oman Skating Sports Committee; and several officials and guests.
The opening began with the Royal Anthem, followed by a welcoming performance presented by students of Talae Al Ilm School. A junior exhibition match featuring promising players from Al Dhahirah highlighted the growing interest in skate ball among younger age groups.
Oman made a commanding start to the tournament, defeating Iraq 9-0 in the opening match amid a strong turnout, particularly from students representing schools across Al Dhahirah.
During the half-time interval, Al Aufi presented a commemorative gift to the Governor in appreciation of his patronage and support. Dr Taelib also presented a gift on behalf of the World Skate Ball Federation.
The opening followed a press conference and technical meeting held in Ibri on September 22, attended by federation officials, participating delegations, coaches, captains and media representatives.
The conference reviewed the competition format, technical regulations and organisational preparations. Abdulrahman Hassan, Vice-Chairman of the federation’s Technical Committee, delivered a briefing on the tournament’s technical arrangements and teams’ readiness.
The official draw was conducted in three stages. The first draw, led by Dr Taelib, featured Oman, the UAE, Iraq and Saudi Arabia. The second, conducted by Al Dosari, featured India, Pakistan, Poland and Egypt.
Saudi Arabia coach Abdullah al Zahrani said his team was ready and excited to make its first appearance in skate ball. He described the tournament as an opportunity to represent the Kingdom positively and lay the foundation for further international participation.
Saudi captain Saeed al Zahrani said representing the Kingdom was both an honour and a responsibility, stressing that the players were determined to give their best.
Iraq coach Dr Rasool al Fartousi said his team had focused on physical, technical and tactical preparations. He added that competing against Arab, Asian and European teams would provide valuable experience and support the development of the Iraqi squad.
Oman captain Marhoom al Shukaili confirmed the hosts’ readiness, saying the team would enter the competition with ambition and a strong sense of responsibility.
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