Written By Jan Sims
KOMOKA - The Komoka Kings are looking for families interested in billeting out-of-town players for the upcoming hockey season. “The billet experience can be a pivotal part of a hockey player’s development, offering a blend of support, growth and lasting relationships. The bonds formed with host families often go beyond the hockey rink, contributing to the player’s personal and professional life in meaningful ways,” says Billeting Coordinator Melanie McAllister.
For interested families, the process begins with visiting the Komoka Kings website for information. The next steps include filling out an application form, providing references and background checks followed by a meeting with the Kings’ manage-ment team. There would be a “walk through” of the home, and a determination of the player/family fit prior to introductions. Families are expected to provide the player with their own furnished room, a desk or space to complete school work, as well as three meals a day. In return they would be compensated at a rate of $600 a month as well as receiving a discount on Kings merchandise.
But the real rewards go beyond the tangibles. “I first left home at 17 years old to play hockey out West and I have had 2 amazing Billet families throughout my Jr hockey career. Each family played an important part in my success both on and off the ice! They accepted me into their home and family and provided me my “Home away from home” and to this day, I still keep in touch with both families as they are and will forever be family to me,” says former Komoka Kings player Ryan McAllister.
His sentiments are echoed by a billet family cited by Melanie McAllister. “Billeting has been an incredible experience for our family. We look forward to welcoming our player every season! We love going to games to cheer on our favourite player. We have created (and maintained) tight relationships with the most well-rounded young men. They have been role models for our son. The players are focussed and hard working. They have a goal and they strive to achieve it. We also billet to invest in our community. Hockey is the heartbeat of our city and we take pride in helping it beat.”
