Muscat – Oman’s women’s national ice hockey team will compete in the 2026 Union Ice Hockey Tournament that started in the UAE on Saturday.

The week-long tournament is an important step for Oman, who have made significant progress in recent months. They claimed a historic silver medal at the Al Ain Union Tournament, underlining the growing competitiveness of the women’s game.

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Oman Skating Sports Committee (OSSC) Chairman Saud Al Aufi said the team’s participation was an important milestone for women’s ice hockey in the Sultanate.

He said the players’ progress demonstrated what could be achieved through commitment and perseverance despite the challenges of limited ice facilities and training opportunities.

“This is an important opportunity for our players to gain experience and represent Oman at the regional level,” Al Aufi said. “Their progress is a reflection of the dedication of the players, coaches and everyone supporting the development of ice hockey in Oman.”

Speaking to Muscat Daily, team captain Al Firdaus Al Kindi said representing Oman was both a privilege and a responsibility.

“We are proud to wear the Oman jersey and compete internationally. Our recent achievements have given us confidence, and we want to carry that confidence into the UAE tournament,” she said.

Assistant captain Khulud Ambusaidi said the team’s experiences over the years had created a strong bond among the players.

“Our focus will be on staying disciplined, maintaining our defensive structure and supporting each other throughout the tournament,” she said.

Head coach Gregory Cameron said the squad had made considerable progress in its physical preparation and tactical understanding.

“The players have developed tremendously. This tournament will be another valuable test and will show us where we stand against strong regional opposition,” he said.

Forward Sara Bekhit said the team’s close relationship had helped the players overcome the challenges of balancing training with personal commitments.

Aysal Waheed said selection for the travelling squad was a rewarding moment after years of hard work by the players, coaching staff and OSSC.

The travelling squad includes Al Firdaus Al Kindi, Khulud Ambusaidi, Sara Bekhit, Zina Al Jabri, Aya Al Mahrouqi, Khadija Al Riyami, Joud Al Hinai, Maism Al Harthi, Talia Makkouk, Aysal Waheed and Ira Yadav.

For Oman’s women’s ice hockey team, the UAE tournament provides another chance to build on recent success, gain valuable international experience and strengthen the future of the sport in the Sultanate.