17-06-2025
MoCSY organises the 2nd edition of Woodball championship
MUSCAT, JUNE 17
The second edition of the Woodball Championship kicks off on Thursday, organised by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth (MoCSY), represented by the Sports Activities Department. The championship will run until June 21 and will take place at the sub-grass field of Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Bausher.
This championship follows the notable success of the first edition held last year on the beach courts of Sohar Sports Complex, which saw broad participation and enthusiastic engagement from various age groups.
In a special statement, Mohammed al Neyadi, Head of the Amateur Sports Section and the official in charge of overseeing emerging, non-federated sports in the Sultanate of Oman, explained that Woodball is a sport suitable for all age groups and is known for its flexibility. It can be played on beaches, sand, grass, or even uneven surfaces adding an element of challenge and excitement to the game.
Al Neyadi pointed out that the sport closely resembles golf in style but has been modified to be more accessible, diverse, and easier to play. Omani players have quickly achieved strong regional and international rankings, thanks to the game's adaptability and inclusive nature.
He emphasised that the Amateur Sports Section was established as part of the Ministry's new strategic direction to support emerging sports that do not yet have official federations or committees. The section aims to support these sports through organised events, the creation of national teams, and participation in international competitions aligning with Oman Vision 2040's goal of building a 'creative human-centered society.' In a related statement, Samira al Shaikhali, Director of Sports Activities at the MoCSY , expressed her pride in organising the second edition of the championship. We are pleased with the growing momentum around wooden ball, and this tournament reaffirms our commitment to supporting modern sports and providing space for their growth, she said. We've seen increasing numbers of participants and players from different governorates, which is a promising sign of the sport's acceptance in the community.
She added that the Sports Activities Department is working to sustain these initiatives not just by organizing championships, but also through collaboration with schools, clubs and youth centers to spread the game further. We look forward to organising broader community tournaments, increasing the number of qualified coaches, and building a strong base of players who can represent Oman in international arenas.
Woodball was first introduced in Oman in 2007 in preparation for participation in the 2010 Beach Games hosted in the Wilayat of Al Musannah. It was one of the key competitive sports at the time. This championship is part of the Amateur Sports Section's plan to ensure the game's continuity especially after the dissolution of the Omani Committee for Sepaktakraw, Kabaddi, and Woodball. These sports have since been incorporated under the section's supervision to preserve their technical and administrative levels and ensure their continued presence in the sports landscape.
