Meet the Quidditch Team
Tucker Bickell interviews a sports society that often flies under the radar.
Since the first Harry Potter novel came out in 1997, people have been fascinated with the mythical game of quidditch. After six more novels and a better understanding of the game, quidditch has made its way to the real world.
Captained by third year Sam Bunce, the St Andrews Snidgets have become an extremely competitive University team. With a heavy intake of developing freshmen this past season, the team looks to improve upon its first semester near miss in qualifying for the British Quidditch Cup.
The game itself is just as unique and complex as it is in Rowling’s novels. To start, all players on the field must run with a PVC broom between their legs. The game is split between two independent skirmishes. In one, three “chasers” attempt to throw a quaffle (a volleyball) through the opposing team’s three hoops, while two “beaters” throw “bludgers” (slightly deflated dodgeballs) at players to force game-time penalties. In the other, “seekers” attempt to catch the “snitch” to end the game.
On the team’s work ethic this past season, assistant captain and second year Katie Smith said the strength of the team lies in its camaraderie. “The thing I really like about our team is we don’t rely on just a few key players to get us through,” she said. “We work together well and everyone brings something different to the table.” Smith also cites new first year seekers Tev Wallace and Jack Nord as great new additions to the squad and believes their efforts have brought lots of energy to the team’s side.
The team is currently practicing for the upcoming Development Cup from the 22 to 23rd of April. On the team’s practices, Smith noted that they are working towards getting all the players up to speed, mainly looking ahead to develop their squad for next season.
Smith encourages anyone interested to give the sport a try, as it is as fun as it is competitive. If you want to be a part of the “magic,” Smith urges anyone to join them at one of their practices on Wednesdays or Saturdays from 2 pm to 4 pm on the North Haugh.
More photos of this marvelous team, please!