You may have noticed a magical feeling in the air this past Saturday at Spring Arbor University (SAU).What you may not have expected that feeling to be was the campus’ first ever Quidditch Tournament hosted by University Hall at the practice soccer field.  Four teams, made up of various floors in the building, participated in the inaugural festivities while several spectators watched on the sidelines.

The magical game of Quidditch made popular in the Harry Potter series does not greatly alter from the game played at SAU, the major difference being that students here cannot fly on brooms. However, brooms were still a significant part of the game, as were Quaffles, Bludgers and even a Golden Snitch.

With some minor alterations to the rules, University Hall Resident Director Joel Thomas dressed in a golden body suit and acted as the Golden Snitch during the matches. Several times throughout the match, Thomas would sprint around the field as each team’s Seeker would attempt to catch him. Catching Thomas resulted in 50 of the 150 points needed to win the game.

While the Seekers chased after the Golden Snitch, the rest of the team focused on getting the Quaffle through three rings hanging in the soccer nets for 10 points.  This proved to be no easy task as they had to outwit the other team’s Chasers, Beaters and Keeper, all while riding a broom between their legs.  A soccer ball was used as the Quaffle, while two foam balls were used as Bludgers.

Students could use either their own homemade brooms, or use foam noodles provided by University Hall.  Players were required to keep one hand on their brooms at all times.

The first ever SAU Quidditch Tournament ended with an exciting final game, with the “They Who Must Not Be Named” defeating the “Basilisks.”  In its first appearance on SAU’s campus, Quidditch appears to be a hit, indicating its almost certain return in the future.