THE FOLLOWING IS AN EXPERIENCE CHAMPAIGN – URBANA RELEASE
19 college and adult club Quadball teams travel to Rantoul Family Sports Complex in March 2026
Rantoul, IL—Quadball, the real-life sport inspired by the magical game of Quidditch, is hosting a national qualifier for the second time in Rantoul. On March 7–8, it will be brooms up at the Rantoul Family Sports Complex as 19 college and adult club Quadball teams from across the country compete for qualification spots at the US Quadball Cup 2026.
Quadball is a mixed-gender, full-contact sport played by around 600 teams in almost 40 countries. The rules, originally adapted from the Harry Potter book series by Middlebury College in Vermont students, incorporate a mix of elements from rugby, dodgeball, and flag football. A Quadball team is made up of seven athletes who must keep a broom between their legs at all times. While other field sports like lacrosse have players using sticks to pass a ball across the playing field, Quadball’s use of a broom during play intensifies this game by forcing players to coordinate holding the broom while also tackling an opponent or passing and catching the ball.
“We’re thrilled to continue hosting the US Quadball National Qualifier at the Rantoul Family Sports Complex,” states Mark Brown, Director of Event Services & Film for Experience Champaign-Urbana. “As this is our second time hosting a national qualifier, the event continually presents opportunities for growth of this sport in our area.”
The event is expected to generate over $300,000 in economic impact for the area, with at least 1–2 hotel stays for participating athletes.
Area residents are encouraged to see the sport that is bringing over 350 athletes to the region. Starting at 8:00 am on both Saturday, March 7, and Sunday, March 8, residents can see athletes play this full-contact sport at Rantoul Family Sports Complex located at 744 Murray Rd. It is suggested to bring your own chair to get a seat right on the sideline close to the action.
To learn more about the sport of Quadball, visit usquadball.org.
Media Advisory
Media is strongly encouraged to attend the tournament for footage and interviews. A representative from US Quadball will be available during the day on Friday for media inquiries.
About US Quadball
US Quadball (USQ) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and the national governing body for the sport of quadball. USQ advances the sport by organizing events and programs that build community and empower adult and youth athletes of all identities, including all races and genders, to compete together. For more information, email press@usquadball.org or visit usquadball.org.
The name of the sport changed from quidditch to quadball in 2022. The governing bodies, US Quadball and Major League Quadball, made the decision to distance themselves from Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling and open sponsorship and broadcast opportunities. The new name refers to the number of balls and the number of positions in the sport.
US Quadball and its activities are not licensed by, sponsored by or associated with Warner Bros., J.K. Rowling, or their affiliates. “Quidditch”, “Harry Potter”, and all related names, characters and indicia are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. – Harry Potter publishing rights © J.K. Rowling.
About Experience Champaign-Urbana
Experience Champaign-Urbana is the certified destination management organization for the greater Champaign-Urbana area. Their mission is to promote a welcoming destination experience for visitors to strengthen economic opportunity and enhance the lives of residents. ECU bid on the US Quadball National Qualifier and are assisting event organizers in creating a successful event. Visit experiencecu.org to learn more.
