November 13, 2019
Media Contact:
Scott L. Peterson, Director of Communications, Office of Public Information, 202-277-9412
ELLICOTT CITY, MD – Howard County Executive Calvin Ball has announced that the 2020 Major League Quidditch (MLQ) Championship will be held in Howard County on August 15 and 16, 2020 at Troy Park at Elkridge. Inspired by the popular Harry Potter books and films, quidditch is a competitive, gender-integrated, full-contact sport played by athletes around the world. Howard County was selected among four national finalists to host the games in September and participated in a thorough evaluation of the experience and facilities being offered to players and spectators.
“Howard County is known across the region for its exceptional recreation facilities which attract a variety of tournaments, league games and practices. The 2020 Major League Quidditch Championship will bring yet another unique sporting event to our community,” said County Executive Ball. “Earlier this year, a Harry Potter themed ‘Wizarding Weekend’ attracted thousands of visitors to Historic Elliott City, reinforcing the popularity of this powerhouse literary fictional series. I thank Major League Quidditch for bringing this championship to our county and I encourage our residents to come out, support, and enjoy this fun event.”
“We are thrilled that Major League Quidditch has chosen Troy Park at Elkridge for its 2020 championship tournament” said Recreation & Parks Director Raul Delerme. “Like the Harry Potter books, quidditch has grown into a global phenomenon and one we are delighted to showcase next year at one of Howard County’s finest sports venues.”
In partnership with Visit Howard County, the national, two-day event will feature the final matches among the 12 best teams in the United States and Canada for the coveted Benepe Cup, named for the sport league’s founder. Troy Park at Elkridge previously hosted the 2018 United States Quidditch Mid-Atlantic Regional Championship.
"I'm extremely excited that we are bringing MLQ to Howard County. The county has been incredibly welcoming to us in every way,” said Commissioner Ethan Sturm. “Every last detail of the Troy Park complex, from the press boxes to the support structures, was so carefully designed that I know we will be able to run our most successful championship yet. I cannot wait for our players, fans and staff to come and experience everything Howard County has to offer."
“Visit Howard County, in partnership with the Howard County Department of Recreation & Parks, is proud to have facilitated the winning bid for the 2020 Major League Quidditch Championship." said Amanda Hof, Executive Director of Visit Howard County. "It is a great honor to host the best quidditch teams from across the U.S. and Canada. In addition to the athletes, their coaches, and respective family and friends, this event will draw spectators from all over.”
About Major League Quidditch
Founded in 2015, MLQ creates a high-intensity environment for the best athletes in North America to hone their skills and compete for one of the sport's highest honors: the Benepe Cup. For more information about MLQ, visit mlquidditch.com or contact press@mlquidditch.com.