Hockey players come from all corners of the earth to play for the Rochester Jr. Americans. In order to make this possible, families in the Greater Rochester area generously open their houses for the duration of the NAHL hockey season, giving Amerks players a home away from home.

WHAT IS AN AMERK BILLET FAMILY?

A billet family is a host family and house for an NAHL hockey player during the hockey season. The NAHL hockey season is around 8 months long (August – April) and during that time, the hosted hockey player will take part in many family/household aspects.

In many cases, Billet Parents/Families become very close to their hosted hockey player. Players take part in daily household chores, mealtime, and will spend time with other children in the house.

Players often become close with the billet siblings and will attend games to watch them. Often hosted players stay actively connected for years after they have moved on to the next phase of their life.

Players are instructed to use clear communication with their Billet family and to obey all household rules Billet families utilize.

WHAT DOES A BILLET FAMILY DO?

Besides giving a player a place to sleep, we ask that you provide daily meals and invite them to be a part of your family. NAHL Hockey players are 16-20 years old and have differing levels of independence.

Some players have traveled with the NAHL and have billeted before, while for other players, it is the first time they will be away from their family. Housing families are compensated $500 per player per month to cover grocery expenses.

Players provide their own transportation to and from the arena, as well as, their own cell phones. While playing for the Rochester Jr. Amerks, players adhere to a strict set of rules for how they may conduct themselves in the arena, in public, and in their Billet home.

WHAT IT TAKES TO BE A HOST FAMILY

• Willingness to open your home to a junior hockey player
• Provide kitchen access and meals as needed
• Healthy family environment