Our Quidditch correspondent breaks down the basics of the game as the sixth annual wizard competition comes to an end.
The sixth annual Quidditch World Cup took place this past weekend in Kissimmee, FL, featuring more than 1,500 athletes from 80 teams around the world fighting for the title of QWC Champion. And since most people are only familiar with the version of the sport from the Harry Potter world, I'm here to help you understand how it works in a non-fictional environment. Below, the building blocks of a winning Quidditch World Cup squad.
The Traditional Shoe Trade
Trading shoes with an opposing player dates all the way back to the 1920's when Greg Montgomery of House Ravenclaw generously gave his cleats to Allen Smithson of House Hufflepuff, after a dorm room fire left all of Smithson's belongings burnt to a crisp.
Since then, the trading of shoes has become a sign of sportsmanship amongst players.
Substitutions
During a substitution, the player coming off the field must place the broom on his head as a sign of "I'm Out." The incoming player must then place their hand on the lower back of the player he is replacing. Only then can a team complete a wizard substitution. Wizards!
The Kanungo Takeoff
The Kanungo Takeoff is the bicycle kick of quidditch. Not many players can master the move, but it can be a huge advantage for those that can. Let's look closer.