Cancelled: 2020 National Championship

We have been monitoring the ongoing progression of the situation relating to COVID-19, and in light of recent updates, have made the difficult decision to suspend quidditch activities in Canada. This, unfortunately, includes the cancellation of our 2020 National Championship. 

This decision was made with the best interests of players, volunteers, and community members in mind. As a growing number of local and national events are being cancelled, Quidditch Canada recognizes its responsibility to public health and safety, not just of our members, volunteers, and fans, but of our global community. 

We advise that all programs similarly suspend their own local quidditch activities, including youth quidditch program, development quidditch programs, practices, and tournaments. Though there are less risks associated with locally hosted events, the growing reality of community transmissions of the virus means that a full contact sport such as quidditch does pose a greater risk than other day to day activities. 

What does this mean for the National Championship?

We understand that this decision is deeply disappointing for the athletes and volunteers who have worked hard over the course of the season to prepare for this tournament. We are grateful for our community’s support and understanding as we navigate this complex situation, and thankful to our partners, including Edmonton Events, the University of Alberta, Campus Tower Suites, and countless other partners and community members for their flexibility and understanding. 

All registered attendees will receive a full refund for their event registration within the next two weeks. We have been in communication with our hotel partner to ensure that our athletes do not incur charges as a result of the event cancellation. Quidditch Canada is also exploring the possibility of awarding the 2021 Nationals bid to the City of Edmonton, and will keep our membership updated as this conversation proceeds. In addition, we are exploring opportunities to organize summer quidditch events, pending further developments relating to the outbreak. 

For individuals who had planned to fly to the event, please refer to the information available for the following airlines regarding the process of cancelling, refunding, and rescheduling flights. 

West Jet: https://www.westjet.com/en-ca/travel-info/coronavirus

Air Canada: https://www.aircanada.com/ca/en/aco/home/book/travel-news-and-updates/2020/covid-19.html

Flair: https://flyflair.com/travel-info/customer-service/covid-19-updates?

Swoop: https://help.flyswoop.com/support/solutions/44000807326

What does this mean for my other quidditch plans?

Team Canada practices are temporarily suspended. We also strongly advise that teams suspend all other quidditch related activities at this time. For more information, please visit our standing COVID-19 information page.