This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Mizzou chapter.
Hey Potterheads, check out this week’s campus celebrity, Brett Smith! Recently voted Mizzou Quidditch team captain, his favorite series may not be about the Boy Who Lived, but we’re sure he makes up for it with his athletic ability out on the pitch. Be sure to check out their match Oct. 18!
Her Campus Mizzou: What made you decide to play Quidditch here at Mizzou?
Brett Smith: It was actually not a very exciting story, I knew nothing about it and a friend just asked me to come out.
HCM: What’s your favorite part about the game?
BS: My favorite part of playing Quidditch is getting to tackle people. I played football in high school and am currently enlisted in the Marines, so the Quidditch contact rules (which are very similar to rugby) appeal to me. And I really enjoy tackling people who are larger than myself.
HCM: Have you read the “Harry Potter” series? Would you consider it your favorite book series?
BS: Well, I’m more of a “Star Wars” kinda guy myself, but my favorite book series in the world is the “Chronicles of Prydain” because it is about magic, adventure and fantasy. It also has swords and monsters thrown in, which is always a plus.
HCM: Best advice for other players?
BS: My best advice for other players is to just be an athlete in general. Go play other sports and keep yourself in shape. Every physical sport that you are playing will relate to Quidditch. And once you get onto the pitch, just put in effort and have the confidence to succeed. You wouldn’t believe how many people fail because they won’t try something new.
HCM: How can fans stay up-to-date on Quidditch news?
BS: You can follow us on our Facebook page and our Twitter should be giving regular score reports from our games.