Some clarifications about the Tri-Wizard Cup

[alt_penelope]

The Prefects had a meeting to compile all the questions people have been asking, and this evening your Head Boy and I had a chance to bring those questions to the Headmistress. What follows are her answers and a few common-sense reminders:

• There is no age restriction for hopefuls but fourth-years and below are strongly reminded that they are very unlikely to be chosen. Please think carefully about your chances and your strengths before putting your name in for consideration.


• The participants from Durmstrang and Beauxbatons will be housed within the castle and will take lessons alongside their agemates. At the moment, we anticipate that part of Ravenclaw Tower will be made available to the Beauxbatons students and a section of the dungeons will become the Durmstrang students' new home while they are visiting. Please accord them every courtesy as they learn their way round the castle and adjust to lessons with us.


• As a result of the demands on the staff, grounds and champions themselves, we are suspending the year's Quidditch season. There will be no Quidditch Cup this year and the pitch will be temporarily converted for use in the Tournament.


• Challenges for the Tri-Wizard Tournament are under the control of the Department of Magical Games and Sports and the Department of International Magical Co-Operation. Some students or staff may be given prior knowledge of a given task or challenge. Anyone found sharing information with a champion that might prove to give them an unfair advantage will be subject not only to Hogwarts' disciplinary action, but also the Ministry's.


• It should go without saying, but no one will but the champions will be excused from end-of-term exams. Training for the Cup or assisting a champion to train will not be considered a valid excuse for failing to complete any professor's assignment.


• The Cup will be displayed once our visiting delegations arrive in October and students may submit their names beginning that evening. The Champions' names will be drawn on Halloween.

Obviously, we all have or have friends who have aspirations for the Hogwarts Champion, but only one person will be chosen. Avery and I trust that you will all show the champion - whomever she or he is - your full support, but will also remember that the Durmstrang and Beauxbatons students are also our guests. The purpose behind the Tri-Wizard Tournament remains, as it was in its heyday, to build relationships with wizards and witches outside our own country and, now that it has returned, to teach them by word and deed of the truly remarkable world which we in the Protectorate can enjoy.

Please bear that in mind as we look forward to the exciting days ahead.