WHAT IS A BILLET FAMILY?
A billet family is a seasonal host family that will act as a “home-like” experience for North American Hockey League (NAHL) players during their season. The NAHL season is roughly 8 months long spanning from August to April. During this time, a hosted player essentially will become a member of their respective billet family, participating in things such as household chores, mealtime, and bonding.
Most times, the players and the family members become extremely close and can really create a unique experience for everybody involved, all surrounding the best sport in the world.
Our players come from all different kinds of backgrounds. They could be from different states, provinces and in some cases, even different countries. Every player will make his way through the NAHL to further their hockey careers and make it to the next level.
The family also gains a new contributing member and a “big brother” for younger family members. Parents of younger children could get a glimpse of the future and learn how to provide guidance to teenagers, while also giving them room to grow.
WHAT DOES A BILLET FAMILY DO?
The necessary pre-requisites will be to provide a quality place to sleep, provide your player with daily meals and invite them to become involved in family activities if they wish to do so. NAHL players are between the ages of 16 and 20 years old and will have differing amounts of independence.
Billet families will be compensated with a monthly stipend for each player to cover any grocery expenses. The players will also be responsible for their own transportation once they arrive and become a part of the team.
KEY BENEFITS
- Season Tickets
- Creating life-long relationships
- Year-long discounts
- Monthly stipend
The Johnstown Tomahawks also offer Flex Billeting. Flex billets will host players as needed throughout the season. This ‘part time’ billeting experience is great for families who are interested in becoming billets, but not ready to fully commit to having players in their home from August to May.
Several billet families from last season and members of our staff are ready and willing to help you with any questions you may have. If you’re interested email billetcoord@johnstowntomahawks.com to talk about joining our Tomahawks family!