Become a Billet Family
Open your home. Join the Rockies family.
Every season, the Columbia Valley Rockies welcome young hockey players from across Canada. For many, it’s their first time living away from home.
Our billet families play an essential role in making Invermere feel like home, providing a safe, supportive environment where players can thrive both on and off the ice.
For many families, the experience leads to friendships that last well beyond the hockey season.
“They visit in the summers, and I am still in touch with their families.”
– Natalie Ruby, former billet parent
What Is a Billet Family?
Billet families open their homes to out of town Rockies players, typically aged 17 to 20, from September through the end of the hockey season (March or later, depending on playoffs).
Whether you’re a family with children, a couple, a single parent or an empty nester, there’s no typical billet family. All you need is a welcoming home and a willingness to support a young athlete.
What Do Billet Families Provide?
A private, furnished bedroom and internet access, breakfast and lunch supplies, plus a family dinner or prepared meal most days.
Most importantly, billet families provide a safe, respectful and supportive home environment where players feel welcome.
Good to know: Billet families are not responsible for transporting players to team activities or covering medical expenses. Hockey equipment is stored and cleaned at the arena.
What Is Expected of Players?
Players are expected to respect their billet family’s home, routines and household rules. This includes keeping their space clean, helping with reasonable chores, communicating their schedules and meal plans, and respecting rules regarding visitors and quiet hours.
Players have busy schedules with practices, games, training and road trips. While they’re encouraged to become part of the family, they’re also expected to be responsible and independent.
Our Billet Coordinator is available throughout the season to support families and address any concerns.
Benefits of Billeting
Becoming a billet family is a rewarding way to support local junior hockey while making a lasting difference in a young player’s life.
Billet families receive:
- A monthly stipend for each player hosted
- Season passes for household members, including playoff admission
- A Rockies welcome package
- Invitations to team events and celebrations
- The opportunity to build lifelong friendships
Frequently Asked Questions
Do we need to change our family routine?
No. Players are expected to adapt to your household’s reasonable routines and expectations.
Can we host more than one player?
Absolutely! Families with adequate space are welcome to host multiple players.
What happens during holidays or family vacations?
Most players return home for Christmas and may travel home for other holidays. If needed, temporary accommodations can be coordinated.
What if the arrangement isn’t working?
Our Billet Coordinator will help address concerns and arrange alternative accommodations if necessary.
What if a player is traded or released?
Our Billet Coordinator will work with your family and discuss the possibility of welcoming another player.
How to Become a Billet Family
Getting started is easy!
- Get in touch: Contact our Billet Coordinator to express your interest.
- Tell us about your home: Complete a short questionnaire about your household, lifestyle and preferences.
- Complete a Criminal Record Check: Required for all household members aged 18 and older. Associated fees are reimbursed by the Rockies.
- Meet your player: We’ll work to find a great match and help welcome your player into your home.
There is no long term contractual obligation. Our team is here to support you throughout the experience.
Open Your Home. Make a Lasting Impact.
Billet families are the heart of junior hockey. By welcoming a Rockies player into your home, you’re providing more than a place to stay. You’re helping a young athlete pursue their dreams while becoming part of the Rockies family.
“If you are considering it, take the plunge and DO IT! We have had great experiences, made memories for life, and it’s been even better than we imagined it would be.”
Natalie Ruby, former billet parent
Interested in becoming a billet family?
Contact our Billet Coordinator at cvrockies.billet@gmail.com today to learn more about opening your home to a Columbia Valley Rockies player.
