Wednesday 28 / October / 2026
Muscat: Oman Hockey Association Chairman (OHA) Dr Marwan bin Juma Al Juma was recently conferred the International Hockey Federation (FIH) Order of Merit in recognition of his contributions to the development and administration of hockey at national, continental and international levels, placing an Omani sports administrator among the recipients of one of the federation’s honours.
FIH President Tayyab Ikram presented the honour to the Oman Hockey Association (OHA) official at the 50th FIH Statutory Congress, held in Doha, Qatar.
Besides Al Juma, OHA was represented by board member Rudaina bint Amer Al Hajri.
Al Juma, who is also the Vice-President of the Asian Hockey Federation, said he was proud and honoured to receive the FIH Order of Merit. He stressed that the distinction carried considerable significance for Omani sport and gave the hockey community renewed motivation to continue developing the game and raising its profile.
“I am proud to receive this honour and dedicate it to everyone who has contributed to Omani hockey,” Al Juma said.
“I see it as recognition of our collective effort and of the contribution Omani professionals make to sports administration at both Asian and international levels.
“It also gives me a greater sense of responsibility to continue serving the game and working with our partners to provide better opportunities for players and Omani sports personnel.”
He explained that the award’s wider significance for Omani sport lay in demonstrating the ability of its professionals to contribute to international sports organisations.
“Recognising Omani professionals raises the profile of the country’s sporting experience and encourages young people to gain knowledge and expertise and pursue roles in sports administration, event organisation and officiating,” he said.
“Serving in continental and international federations allows us to share expertise, contribute to discussions on issues shaping the future of sport and strengthen links with counterparts around the world.”
Al Juma said the honour held particular meaning for Oman’s hockey community.
“On this occasion, I recognise the efforts of our players, coaches, umpires and administrators, as well as the work clubs do to support those who play hockey,” he said. “I also appreciate the contributions of successive boards and everyone who has supported the association’s progress. The work built up over the years and the cooperation among all these parties provide the foundation for development and make every international honour a shared incentive to contribute more.”
Discussing the award’s impact on the next phase of development, he said: “The value of this honour lies in turning the recognition and confidence it brings into motivation for work on the pitch. Developing hockey requires broadening participation, investing in youth development, training coaches and umpires, and giving talented players regular opportunities to train and compete. Encouraging girls to take part and strengthening the game’s presence in schools and communities are also important ways to build a broader, more sustainable base.”
Al Juma thanked Sayyid Saud bin Hilal Al Busaidi, Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth, and ministry officials for their continued support for the development of Omani hockey. He also thanked the organisations supporting the sport and the FIH, led by Tayyab Ikram, for the honour, and expressed his appreciation to Qatar for hosting the Congress.
FIH Awards
Following the Congress, Tayyab Ikram presented the FIH President’s Award to Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, Andrés de Witt of Chile and Patrick Keusters of Belgium. The Argentine Hockey Confederation received the Theo Ykema Award, while the Order of Merit was awarded to Al Juma; Deon Morgan of South Africa; Ravi Kant Srivastava of India; and Cameron Vale of Australia.
