Quidditch Tryouts

Dear Professor McGonagall,

How old must a student be to try out for Quidditch? As Potter was the youngest player on our team in centuries, I understand there is less chance for younger hopefuls, but is there a minimum age required? What age would you recommend? Are there certain ages you would assign to different positions as Seekers have to be fast (and small) and beaters have to be strong? and if a player is selected for a position they were not aiming to get (ex. Chaser instead of Beater) can they decline?

Regards,
A Gryffindor Quidditch trainee

Dear Gryffindor Quidditch trainee,

Quidditch requires excellent broom-handling skills; the ability to maneuver whilst tracking the movements of fourteen players, three balls (four, for Seeker), and the referee; teamwork; and the ability to perform under pressure. All students are welcome to try out for House teams; however, first years seldom meet even the first of these qualifications.

It is my observation from my own years on the Gryffindor Quidditch team, as well as my years as professor and avid Quidditch fan, that size considerations matter most for Seekers, who, ideally, are slim and agile, as you point out. Beaters should be strong, but wiry or bulky matters less than overall power and precision. Chasers, arguably, come in the broadest range of body types. Nevertheless, body type is less important than you might think, compared to skillset.

Team captains are experienced enough to assess the potential of applicants at tryouts. For a student to turn down a position because it is not their preferred one would suggest lack of team spirit and, potentially, an inability to take coaching or direction. As that would suggest a deplorable attitude, it would likely be better for all involved for the student to step down, and leave the position to an individual with more loyalty and capacity for cooperation.

I expect such loyalty, team spirit, and cooperation from all members of the Gryffindor team.

And further, I expect to see the House Cup in my possession at the end of term. Good luck.

Minerva McGonagall
Headmistress
Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry