HOST FAMILY
PROGRAM
The Cougar Host Family Program make a significant difference in the lives of the young men who have left home for the opportunity to play at a more elite level. The program pairs local Chicagoland families (mostly hockey families), with incoming Cougar Players who need a home for the season.
We are looking for billet families for the 2023-2024 season. Cougars Players, ages 16-20, needs are the same as any teenager: a room of their own, nutritious meals, and the type of support only a family can provide.
Players come from different backgrounds, states or even different countries. They come to play hockey and they are in need of an inclusive, loving and supportive family while they are here.
As an aspiring athlete competing in Junior Hockey away from home, having the support of a Host Family provides more than just a place to stay at night. Host Families provide stability during a challenging time in a young players life. The move from Junior Hockey is a big step for players and having the support to deal with the stress of the season and life.
The unique bond families form with their players often last a lifetime: It is not uncommon for players to keep in close contact with their former billet families years after playing junior hockey.
A long-standing tradition in hockey culture, billets are a vital part of a team’s success, both on and off the ice.
What you receive in return:
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A firsthand understanding of being a hockey fan.
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A new perspective on hockey as seen through the eyes of your player.
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The opportunity to make a difference to a young player and help him toward his dreams.
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A monthly stipend of $500
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Invitation to and recognition at the annual ‘Billet Appreciation’ game
Contact Jim Sandberg at Jim.S@Olson-Ins.com with questions or would like to explore this amazing opportunity!
GO COUGARS!
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From the League: Our Billet Families Help Shape The League
"Our Billet player Tomi has been a wonderful addition to our Hockey loving family. This experience is one my young hockey players will never forget - A Big Brother they will miss when the season comes to an end. We are very proud to be a part of the Billet program, and the Palm Beach Hawks organization." -The Paradis Family
“Jé is my hockey brother, can’t you tell we look alike!”
"Having Tyler stay with us has been so enjoyable. His friendly face and enthusiasm has made our experience as a Billet family wonderful. He blended in to our family and we consider him one of our own now." -The Miller Family
"As a first time billet family, our goal was to welcome a player who needed a home, and who could hopefully have a good relationship with our two teenage hockey player sons. Our experience has far surpassed our expectations. Orlando was almost instantly a part of our family, and it’s strange to think about what our house will be like without him. I can’t say enough about what a positive experience this has been. " -The Klinsing Family
"“When hockey gives you another brother and he goes home for Christmas, our little girl loves and misses him and it’s only day 1 since he left. It has been a wonderful experience for all of us." -The Jendro Family
"We billet for Eric of the Minnesota Blue Ox. He is a great guy, helpful around the house, with our dog & our almost 9 month old. Reese is absolutely obsessed and gets so excited when Eric walks in the door. It’s great to be part of an organization that includes character and responsibility off the ice too." -The Ryan Family