Thank you for your interest in becoming a Billet Family.
Junior Hockey Players need guidance, support, and attention to be successful while playing hockey with the Nordiques. Host Families will be the primary adult figures in their life while players are away from home. Our goal is to have Host Families that treat players as they would their own children, by supporting them in academic and athletic endeavors, imposing discipline when necessary, and expecting contributions to their own family’s home life and activities.
Players have been invited to join the Maine Nordiques because they wish to have an opportunity to join college hockey programs. Players should be reminded often that these opportunities hinge not only on their hockey skills, but also on their academic records, their citizenship, and their disciplinary record. Their continued involvement in the program, during this or future seasons, is also dependent on these three dimensions. Your positive influence is welcome and we ask that you have/provide:
Space & Accommodations:
- Separate room and closet for a player, or shared room and bath if hosting more than one player -Desk and chair, internet access and furnishings as you might find in a dorm room
- Nutritious meals. (players are responsible for meal expenses when traveling)
- A patient, caring and friendly home atmosphere
- The same guidance and attention you would want for your children
Sensitivity & Patience
It can be overwhelming for a player to be so far away from home. A thoughtful billet family appreciates that each player is unique
What you can expect to receive in return for opening your home to a Nordiques player:
- Most importantly, the opportunity to make a difference to a young player and help him toward realizing his dreams.
- A first hand understanding of being a hockey fan.
- A new perspective on hockey as seen through the eyes of your player
- Orientation and support from the Maine Nordiques staff and other experienced billets.
- A monthly stipend
- Season Tickets for the entire family (Household)
Billeting FAQ’s
What if it doesn’t work out as planned or my family situation changes?
We ask that if you are ever unable to fulfill all the obligations to the player please let us know immediately so we can make other housing arrangements.
What is a billet family?
Many players leave home to play junior hockey. A billet or host family home is where a player lives during the season. This is a player’s home away from home
Are billet families paid?
A pre-established fee per player is paid to the billet family per month. This helps with additional household expenses, especially food and drink.
Is there a “typical” host family?
Host families may be two parent families, single parent families and occasionally an “empty nester”. The common denominator is a desire by the family to make a difference in the player’s life.
Can a family host more than one player? Yes. Two (or more) players can share transportation expenses, and often provide company for each other. The only requirement is that each player has adequate space/living arrangements. Each player is expected to have his own bed, closet or dresser and acceptable access to a restroom.
How long does the player stay?
Players arrive in late August. Players who are not in school will leave usually within a few days after the season ends.
Who pays if a player is injured or needs medical attention during his stay?
Players must have medical insurance from their own families. Billet families are never responsible for medical payments.
Will players join our family for personal events?
You are welcome to invite players to join you and your family for celebrations or activities, but it is not mandatory that you do so. All players have time off during the holidays in December.
Will my player attend school or have a job? Yes, all players are required to either be in school or work part time
Will I have to pass a background check? Yes, the Nordiques require a background screening for billet families.
APPLY TO BE A BILLET
OR- DOWNLOAD APPLICATION FORM HERE: 23-24 Billet Family Info – Application