Alternative 2021 Plans for MLQ Canadian Franchises

Due to the unique, ongoing effects of COVID-19 on our Canadian franchises, MLQ, the Ottawa Black Bears and the Toronto Raiders have discussed and reached an agreement on an alternative approach to the MLQ season. This two-phased approach will focus on stabilization and development of the two MLQ franchises and Quidditch Canada’s Eastern teams. 

Ottawa Black Bears run the quaffle down the pitch.

ROSTER SIZE
The roster size will apply to both phases. Each franchise will be permitted a roster of 46 athletes. The franchises will not have practice squads. Tryout footage will not be required, however, all athletes will be required to complete the MLQ Athlete Tryout Registration Form by April 30 at 11:59 pm ET in order to be named to a franchise roster. Ottawa and Toronto will abide by the same tryout deadlines as all other franchises. 

PHASE ONE: VIRTUAL
Season Cost Per Athlete: $6.81 CAD (plus processing fees)
• The season cost will cover the franchise manager nominal fee
• Managers will still be responsible for the items outlined in the MLQ Franchise Manager description during Phase One: Virtual, with the exception of series-related logistics. However, those will be replaced with virtual event logistics
• If athletes choose to order kits, that will carry an additional cost

In Phase One, the Raiders and the Black Bears will participate in a virtual season. The season will consist of virtual watch parties; film analysis with MLQ coaches across the league; fitness classes and challenges; game and trivia nights; and individual quidditch skill challenges (such as trick shots). More may be added after athletes are rostered and surveyed by franchise leadership.

Franchise leadership will work closely with MLQ to determine if at any point it is appropriate for either franchise or both franchises to begin in-person activities in accordance with the MLQ Return to Play Guidelines. Should that become possible, we will move into Phase Two: In-Person Modified. 

Toronto Raiders and their mascot.


PHASE TWO: IN-PERSON MODIFIED
Season Cost Per Athlete: Additional $12.53 CAD (plus processing fees) for a Phase One and Two total of $19.34 CAD (plus processing fees.
• The season cost will cover the franchise manager nominal fee (as collected during the virtual phase) and MLQ insurance costs

In Phase Two: In-Person Modified, the Raiders and Black Bears will follow the MLQ Return to Play Guidelines. Should it become possible for cross-franchise play, MLQ will work with the two franchises to schedule series. The number of games and series is to be determined. For each game, each franchise will be capped at 21 athletes. However, roster alteration will be allowed from game to game. While kits will be encouraged, they will not be required. Franchise leaderships for both Toronto and Ottawa have agreed to provide officials for these games in order to save on officials fees.

Questions, comments or concerns can be directed to People Ops Director Jamie Lafrance at [email protected] and Commissioners Amanda Dallas and Ethan Sturm at [email protected]. Questions specific to the franchise can be sent to either [email protected] or [email protected].