Quidditch Returns, Rivalries Remain
By Green Moonlight, HEx Reporter

Quidditch has finally returned to Hogwarts!  After a year long hiatus, the competition was fierce, giving fans a taste of what is to come as the battle for the Quidditch Cup is as fierce as ever.  Slytherin introduced a number of new members to their ranks, whilst also suffering the loss of former Captain Jenna James.  Hufflepuff, too, had new leadership, as Dusky Pidlerson stepped aside and Camden VonLexiss and Andara Sheffield stepped up.  Ravenclaw, having lost only two players with last year's graduation, has show early success.  Will they become the team to beat?  Replacing former co-Captain Dawn McNaught, Whitney Lyons joined Calen Thanrion in leading the Gryffindor Lions.

Bludgering was the name of the game when defending champion Slytherin took on Hufflepuff.   Announcing the match was Hufflepuff’s own Crispin Dare who made an offer of 50 galleons to anyone who could knock Slytherin co-Captain M. Marcus Endicus off  of his broom.  Captain Kylara Eris Tierney carrying a bat this game did much to further her team blocking the numerous bludgers sent by Hufflepuff.  Former Triwizard participant Random Irrelevant and Capatain Camden VonLexiss did manage to knock out two Slytherin chasers mid way though the game.

Hufflepuff had an early lead, catching the first Snitch of the game.  Those were, however, their only points in the game.  With several nice shots, Slytherin still managed to come out far ahead as their keepers remained unbeatable.  Contributing to the final score of 130-30 was Slytherin’s successful capture of three snitches.  While new players joined the ranks of both teams, Slytherin showed amazing growth for players so young.

The game between Ravenclaw and Gryffindor proved to be a rough but exciting match for all.  Fourth year Eleanor Benwick of Ravenclaw played a major role in winning the game with three interceptions.  Along with Shanian Love and first year Erin Miakoda, Ravenclaw relied heavily upon the skills of their chasers.  The Ravenclaw team showed a seamless game play that highlighted the skills of individual players as well as there team working skills.

Gryffindor made a valiant effort.  However, their inability to block shots made my Eagle chasers, combined with the effectiveness of Ravenclaw’s bludgering, lost them the game.  Ravenclaw Captain Alexandria Davis was more physical than usual, nudging Gryffindor seekers Calen Thanrion and Lellybelly Froglegs out of the way in order to grab the illusive golden snitch.  Her tactics worked.  In the end, it was the catching of the snitch that won the game.  The final score was 120 to 40, Ravenclaw.

The second set of matches will be played shortly after Christmas.  Ravenclaw will take on Slytherin while Gryffindor and Hufflepuff will face off for what promises to be a great game.  One question remains, will the Snakes be able to hold off the Eagles and keep the cup for another year?  The grudge that was formed two years ago when Slytherin dethroned Ravenclaw as Hogwarts Quidditch Champions still runs deep and the rivalries formed are bound to resurface.  We wish all the house teams good luck and look forward to the exciting matches.