What is a Billet Family and what role does it Play?
Becoming a Billet Family have been a long standing tradition in Junior Hockey. Hosting a player in your home gives opportunities to junior hockey players that range in age from 16 – 20 years-old to compete at the highest level possible. Many of these players come from across Manitoba, Canada and the United States. While pursuing these hockey opportunities, many players are also completing high school, enrolled in post secondary education and work part-time jobs.
Billet Families Provide:
- A patient, caring and friendly home atmosphere
- A separate room for the player, furnished much like a dorm room (bed, desk & chair, clothing storage)
- Nutritious meals including breakfast, lunch and dinner (or the ability for the player to make his own meals)
- The same guidance and attention you would want for your own children (given they were in the same situation)
Billeted Players:
- Must follow all team and host family house rules and show respect for other host family members
- Must take care of their room, including keeping it clean and doing their own laundry
- Transportation to and from practices and home games unless other arrangements have been made with the host family
- If not attending classes, players are encouraged to seek part-time employment and/or be involved in the community
Billet families also serve as authority figures, role models and extended family to their assigned player(s). While hosts receive a monetary honorarium to help off-set some of the costs, the true rewards are in the lasting relationships that are developed.
Note: All successful applicants will be subject to a Child Abuse Registry Check and a Criminal Record Check.
If you are interested in becoming a billet family or require further information, please contact the Selkirk Steelers Billet Coordinator.