“During one of our RHA meetings, we were asking for new ideas for events from our members,” Nicole Moore, RHA National Communications Coordinator, said. “One member suggested Quidditch, so we started to research and found out that there is actually an International Quidditch Association.”

The International Quidditch Association involves over 400 American colleges, 300 high schools, and groups from 12 countries who actively play the game on their campuses. Texas Tech University even has their own intramural team.

Since flying brooms do not exist, the Association plays a version of the game called “ground” or “muggle” Quidditch.

“You must hold a broom between your legs at all times during the game,” said Moore. “[Otherwise], the game is quite the same as the movie.”

Teams will consist of 7-10 people who must supply their own brooms, which have to be at least 40 inches in length. Similar to the books and movies, teams are encouraged to dress up and provide team flags for supporters to wave in the name of team spirit. Not only will the tournament winner receive a trophy, but the best dressed team will be awarded as well.

“It will be awesome, and Harry Potter may make an appearance,” Charles Potter, a freshman Computer Science major, said.

“I used to be a huge fan of Harry Potter,” Natalia Rodriguez, a sophomore Wildlife Biology major, said. “Although I’m not anymore, I’m fascinated by the WT Quidditch tournament. I bet it will be fun.”

The free tournament begins at 2:00pm on April 8 in the intramural fields. Teams can sign up in the JBK on April 5-8 or call the RHA office.