USQ Cancels Events in Early 2021
In the last few months, Muggle quidditch came back, and teams were allowed to play again. Currently, because of increased cases of COVID-19, US Quidditch (USQ) has made a few changes for 2021.
USQ has recommended that teams stop in-person activities until the end of 2020 and has forbidden official events and events covered by USQ insurance. That also means canceling the spring regional championships, which would have been held in February.
The USQ committee made the decision to cancel the spring regional championships after discussions with risk management, regional coordinators, and city partners. Risk Management Coordinator Rebecca Martin said that they are keeping up with developments on COVID-19:
Our primary concern is the health and well[-]being of our community and loved ones. While the news about the effectiveness of recently developed vaccines is encouraging, it is important to remember that a vaccine is not widely available yet and we must continue to follow safety protocols.
Credit: Paulina M. Pascual
While the spring regional championships are canceled, US Quidditch Cup 14 is still scheduled to be held in Salt Lake City, Utah, on April 17–18. Gameplay Coordinator Sarah Kneiling said that her department is working on creating a new structure for the tournament.
The gameplay department has been working through several tournament structure options to provide the best possible experience to teams able to attend. An open nationals requires different format considerations but can be an opportunity to create a new, valuable tournament experience for teams.
Regional coordinators will talk with teams in December and January about their statuses and restrictions. It should help to determine if the US Quidditch Cup or other events will be possible and accessible for them to attend. USQ should reveal more information about the plan for 2021 in January.
