Introduction to Quidditch Strategy Pt. 1
Strategy for Muggle Quidditch is completely different depending on what position you are playing. This post will cover the most basic Quidditch position, the chaser. The chasers are the most visible portion of a Quidditch team and are absolutely integral to the success of a team. Most teams will have two boys and one girl playing chaser at a time.
The chaser is responsible for throwing the quaffle through one of the three hoops on the opponents end, as well as defending his hoops. Chasers must also try to avoid bludgers. There are many things that chasers can do help win the game for their team.
At the beginning of the game the teams race to the middle to gain control of the game balls. The fastest chaser should be in the middle to go for the quaffle. Many teams opt to have this chaser kick the quaffle to a teammate, instead of picking it up. This can be a very effective way to gain a fast break, if the other two chasers streak down the sides.
On offense the chasers need to work as a group to get in position for a shot. The basic strategy for chasing would involve three different positions. The first is back chaser. This chaser should head to the back of the goal, and generally stay in the area of the back to sides of the goals. This spot will allow for both passes and alot of second chance opportunities. The smallest chaser he female chaser is very good for this spot. This chaser should go after all shots that go long and off the pitch.
The other to spots are less defined. In general one might serve a point guard -esque role while the other might be a big guy who shots inside the goal zone. But these are by no means set in stone. Two point guards or two big men could work. I recommend having at least one person who can shot outside playing.
The fast break is critical to success and a lot of points can be scored off breaks if you consistently press. Hustle after any loose balls on defense. Remember to that there is no offsides, so chasers can break upfield as soon as the ball changes hands, and get some easy shots.
Defense is simply putting a body on a man and slowing them down enough to allow them to be hit by bludgers. Physical play is important to playing strong defense, and tackles are good, particularly when there are no bludgers around. That is about it for the basics. Next I will do beaters.
