The Men’s Hockey5s Asia Cup 2023 concluded on its fifth and final day, marking a historic moment in the world of Asian hockey. Held in the picturesque city of Salalah, Oman, this event not only served as the inaugural Hockey5s Championship at the Asian level but also as a crucial qualifier for the FIH Hockey5s World Cup 2024. The tournament showcased exceptional talent, fierce competition, and unforgettable moments that will be etched in the annals of Asian hockey history.
Road to World Cup 2024: Qualifiers
Before we delve into the awards and honors, it’s important to highlight the significant aspect of the Men’s Hockey5s Asia Cup 2023—the qualification for the prestigious FIH Hockey5s World Cup 2024 in Muscat, Oman, scheduled for January 24 to 31. From the Asian continent, four exceptional teams secured their spots in this global spectacle: India, Malaysia, Pakistan, and Oman. These teams not only represented their nations with pride but also earned the opportunity to compete on the world stage, a testament to their dedication and skill.
Celebrating Excellence: Awards Presentation
During the closing ceremony of the Men’s Hockey5s Asia Cup Salalah 2023, several distinguished authorities graced the occasion and presented individual awards to the standout performers of the tournament. The awards were handed out by:
– Mr. Musa bin Abdullah Al Qasabi – Director General of the General Directorate of Culture, Sports, and Youth in Dhofar Governorate.
– AKM Mominul Huq Shaeed – Vice President Asian Hockey Federation.
– Dr. Khamis bin Salem Al-Rahbi – Secretary General of the Oman Hockey Association.
– Mr. Abdullah Al-Obaidani – Member Oman Hockey Association.
– Mr. Zuhair Al-Ajmi – Treasurer Oman Hockey Association.
Let’s take a closer look at the prestigious awards presented:
Top-Scorer of the Tournament: Abdul Rana (Pakistan)
Pakistan’s Abdul Rana, wearing jersey number 8, emerged as the tournament’s top-scorer with an astonishing tally of 27 goals. His remarkable scoring prowess left spectators in awe, setting a high bar for future editions of this championship.
Promising Goalkeeper of the Tournament: Abdullah Khan (Pakistan)
The award for Promising Goalkeeper of the Tournament was rightfully claimed by Pakistan’s Abdullah Khan. His impressive skills and agility between the posts did not go unnoticed.
Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament: Asim Gope (Bangladesh) and Lenur Vishnyakov (Kazakhstan)
The Best Goalkeeper of the Tournament honor was shared by two exceptional goalkeepers: Asim Gope from Bangladesh and Lenur Vishnyakov from Kazakhstan. Their outstanding performances under pressure earned them this prestigious recognition.
Rising Star Players of the Tournament: Aiman Madit (Oman) and Abdullah Delpori (Afghanistan)
In recognition of their promising talent and dedication, Aiman Madit from Oman and Abdullah Delpori from Afghanistan were jointly awarded the Rising Star Player of the Tournament. These young athletes showcased their potential and are poised for bright futures in Hockey5s.
Player of the Tournament: Maninder Singh (India)
The most coveted and hard-earned award of the tournament, Player of the Tournament, was bestowed upon India’s Maninder Singh. His experience and skill were instrumental in guiding India to a gold medal, making him a standout performer of the championship.
Medals and Honors
The medal ceremony was a poignant moment where the participating teams received recognition for their exceptional efforts. Here are the medal recipients:
Bronze Medal: Oman secured the bronze medal, a fitting achievement for the host nation. The medals were presented by Mr. Satoshi Kondo, Treasurer Asian Hockey Federation, along with Eng. Thani Bin Suhaim Al Wahaibi, Board Member Oman Hockey Association.
Silver Medal: Pakistan earned the silver medal for their outstanding performance. Dr. Bahram Ghadimi, President Iran Hockey Federation, and Chairman Asian Hockey Federation Indoor Committee, presented the medals, along with Mr. Saeed Al-Maamari, Board Member Oman Hockey Association.
Gold Medal: The grand presentation of the gold medal was an unforgettable moment, and it was fittingly awarded to India, the champions of the Men’s Hockey5s Asia Cup Salalah 2023. The medals were presented by esteemed personalities including His Excellency Sheikh Faisal bin Abdullah Al-Rawas, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Dr. Marwan Juma al Juma, President of Oman Hockey Association and Vice President AHF.
The tournament trophy was handed over to India by His Excellency Dato Tayyab Ikram, IOC Commission Member and President of the International Hockey Federation.
The Men’s Hockey5s Asia Cup Salalah 2023 not only marked the beginning of a new era in Asian hockey but also celebrated the remarkable talent and dedication of athletes from across the continent. It was a tournament filled with unforgettable moments, stunning performances, and the promise of even greater competitions in the future. Congratulations to all the participants for their outstanding contributions to this historic event, and best wishes to the qualified teams as they prepare to represent Asia on the world stage at the FIH Hockey5s World Cup 2024 in Muscat.
