Apr 1, 2010

Billet Families

The South Shore Kings recruit the best players from around the country to play for our program at an Elite Level. This is where billet families enter into the picture. Each player will be placed with a family within the community and will spend the entire hockey season with them. Billet parents are called upon to provide more than simply a bed to sleep in. Above all else they will make certain that the player feels at home and is part of their family.

The billeting concept is part of the hockey tradition, and is especially important at the Junior level of hockey. It involves host families opening their homes to out-of-state or international players, and provides an option for these young men to pursue the next step in their intellectual and athletic development. The billet program also permits some individuals an opportunity to complete their high school education or take college preparatory classes, and pursue part-time employment in the local community.

During this time a relationship begins to foster among the entire family. That being said, lasting friendships are made. The billet becomes a player's “home away from home” and the surrounding community becomes a second “hometown”. Billeting is a very rewarding experience and the overwhelming enjoyment a family receives from opening their hearts and homes to a fine young man who is trying to achieve his dream of playing at the next level.

Billet families play an integral part of the South Shore Kings and are critical to the overall success of our program. Families receive a monthly stipend for each player.

Billet Families Responsibilities

• Dedicated Room - which includes a double bed or larger, a student desk for homework, preferably a TV in room.

• Family Type Meals

• Laundry - to be determined between player and billet family

• Support, communication and understanding are vital. All concerns regarding the player should be directed to the billet coordinator(s)

• Having the player feel at home and part of the family is very important

• Player Billet Profile - to be completed at season end by billet family

Some have found it easier to house two players as they can then travel together and are company for each other. Host families are not expected to incur out of pocket expenses to billet a player. Further, transportation varies depending on the situation. Most players will be able to drive themselves however, if they cannot, it's often worked out where a nearby player can pick them up thus limiting the commitment a host family has to have to get the player to and from the rink.

While players are expected to provide bed and bath linens, personal care items, cell phones, media equipment and take care of their own transportation needs, each housing situation has its own unique mix of these things. (Note: When the players are on the road, they take care of their own food expenses).

What is expected of the players?

• They must obey all team and house rules and show respect and consideration toward all family members.

• They need to take care of their own belongings.

How long is a host family’s commitment? This varies depending on the player. Some are with the family during the hockey season only. Others need to complete the school year. Some players go home for the weekend as often as the game schedule permits. All players go home over the holiday break.

Want to talk about being a host family? Please send an email or call us at the contact information listed below. Your willingness to share your home and family is all it takes,and the players will thank you as well.

Please contact Jean Panciocco at jpanciocco@foxborosportscenter.com or call at 508.698.0505 extension 204.