Oman’s first female international hockey referee says there’s much scope to develop women’s hockey in Oman

As the first Omani woman to obtain an international license to referee hockey matches both locally and internationally, Muhja al Namani has brought unparalleled prestige to Oman.

Mujha’s journey in sports began at a young age, fueled by a deep passion for hockey. However, in early 2023, she fulfilled her childhood dream by actively engaging in the sport.

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Muhja shared that she started playing hockey to gain an identity but had never played for any club in Oman before. She joined the women’s national team in March 2023 and participated in all internal and external training camps, as well as international tournaments.

Mujha emphasises the need for greater media support to promote women’s hockey in Oman, encouraging more girls to take up the sport. She believes that with increased awareness and participation, a strong national team can be built, capable of competing internationally and achieving creditable results.

Muhja’s dedication paid off in December 2024 when she obtained her international refereeing license during the Women’s Hockey Junior Asia Cup in Muscat. This achievement allows her to officiate local and international tournaments for both men and women.

This milestone not only marks a personal triumph for Muhja but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring female referees and players across the country. Her success highlights the growing opportunities for women in sports and the importance of perseverance in breaking barriers.

Talking about the challenges she faced, Muhja said that balancing personal work, national team trainings, and family responsibilities was her biggest challenge. However, with patience, determination, and unwavering support from her family, she overcame these obstacles.

Mujha advises aspiring female hockey players to join clubs, take intensive courses, and familiarise themselves with the game’s rules. She also stressed that Oman has talented female hockey players but a major awareness campaign is needed to encourage more participation in the sport. She urged sports authorities and educational institutions to integrate hockey programmes into school curricula to nurture talent from a young age.

She highlighted the many benefits of playing hockey for women, explaining that the fast-paced nature of hockey fosters collaboration, teamwork, and effective communication. Playing a male-dominated sport builds self-confidence, encouraging women to be competitive and assertive, she said.

The sport demands dedication, discipline, and continuous improvement, traits that translate into success in other areas of life. Hockey enhances the ability to make quick decisions under pressure, strengthening leadership skills. The game promotes endurance, strength, agility, and overall fitness, empowering women physically. Women, excelling in hockey, challenge societal norms and inspire younger generations to pursue sports fearlessly, she pointed out.

In addition to her accomplishments, Muhja has also been actively involved in mentoring young players and advocating for better training facilities for women in Oman. She believes that structured development programmes and international exposure will help elevate the level of women’s hockey in the country. Her journey exemplifies the impact that a single individual’s determination can have on an entire community.

The hockey referee concludes with a powerful message to young Omani women, encouraging them to believe in their abilities, pursue their dreams, and proudly represent Oman in international arenas. She emphasised that sports, especially hockey, can shape individuals into stronger, more confident people.

“The journey is never easy, but every challenge you overcome brings you closer to your dreams. If you are passionate about something, go for it fearlessly,” she said.