Don’t tell the Muggles, but Sudbury is about to get a whole lot more magical. The second Sudbury Quidditch Invitational and Potter Exhibition will take place Oct. 14.
The event will also include an array of Harry Potter-themed activities for all ages, including a Diagon Alley full of magical vendors, a live sorting ceremony, a costume contest and wand-making classes.
Well-known to Harry Potter fans as the magical game played on flying broomsticks, the land version of Quidditch was first played by Muggles in 2005, and has grown steadily since.
The gameplay resembles a mix between dodgeball, flag football and handball.
Played on the ground rather than in air, the positions are the same as in the books — three chasers, two beaters, one keeper and one seeker. Four balls are always in play: one quaffle (a volleyball) and three bludgers (dodgeballs).
Chasers throw the quaffle through hoops to score 10 points, while beaters throw bludgers to deter scoring; when hit, players must dismount their brooms and touch a goalpost before returning.
The elusive snitch, a small, flying golden ball in the magical version, is a neutral person not on either team wearing yellow “snitch shorts” with a small flag attached, running around the pitch while seekers attempt to snatch the snitch; when one does, that team gets 30 points and the game ends.
The “brooms” are actual broomsticks or PVC pipe, which the players must keep between their legs throughout play.
Teams can have between six and 14 players. Players must be at least 14 years of age to participate in the competition. Registration forms are available here.
Guests are encouraged to bring pairs of new socks for donation. The clothing will be donated to the shelters, as well as to house elves.
The tournament and exhibition will take place at the Cambrian College Athletic Centre between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
