Viking Billet Families

Billeting entails offering a nurturing home to players aged 16-20 who join the VENTURA VIKINGS JR. HOCKEY CLUB for their hockey season, becoming part of our extended family. These young athletes come from various corners of the world, including North America and Europe, seeking a safe and supportive environment from August to mid-March (with the potential for an April extension during playoffs).

Billet families are compensated with a monthly stipend per player to assist with hosting expenses while embracing the role of a player's home away from home. Families can accommodate more than one player, provided each has adequate space and access to essential amenities.

The responsibilities of a billet family include fostering a clean, family-oriented atmosphere, providing three nutritious meals and snacks daily, and maintaining open communication with coaches and players. Background screenings are required for billet families, ensuring a secure environment for everyone involved.

In the event of player injuries or medical needs, our dedicated athletic trainer manages all medical concerns, alleviating any financial burden on the billet family. Players are encouraged to be a part of the family, participating in various activities and events, but this is entirely at the family's discretion. Billet's parents are never held responsible for medical payments.

A great billet family establishes clear guidelines, caters to the player's nutritional needs, and respects their independence. Open communication with the player's parents, active involvement in the player's season, and attending games whenever possible are all essential components of a successful billet experience.

The VENTURA VIKINGS organization strives for excellence, emphasizing respect within the household and the community. The positive relationships formed during the billeting experience often extend well beyond the player's college years, creating lasting connections and fond memories. We are committed to providing unparalleled family entertainment and promoting sportsmanship on and off the ice, ensuring that the Vikings' legacy continues to thrive.

What is a billet family? 

 It is a family offering space in their home for a player to live during the season. It is the player's home away from home. 

 Are billet families paid?  

Yes. Families are paid a monthly stipend per player. The money is provided to help offset some of the expenses of hosting a player but does not eliminate the expenses. and Billet Families will also be provided with Season Passes for all home games.   

Can a family billet more than one player?  

Yes. The only requirement is that each player has adequate space including a bed, closet/dresser, and access to a restroom.  

How long does a player stay?  

Players typically arrive in early August and stay through the end of the season, typically in March.   

What is expected of the billet family?  

Provide a clean, family atmosphere and 3 nutritious meals & snacks/day to the player. They are also expected to communicate with coaches and maintain open communication with their billet players.  

Will I have to pass a background check?   

Yes, the USPHL requires background screenings for all billet families.   

Who pays if a player is injured or needs medical attention during his stay?   Our athletic trainer handles all medical issues with the players so everything would go through them, and the player's personal insurance, thus having no stress on the billet family. In addition, players must have medical insurance from their own families. Most importantly, billet parents are never responsible for medical payments.    

Will players join our family for personal events?  

 We stress to our players that they are a part of the family and encourage them to take part in as many family activities - it’s part of the experience. Families are welcome to invite players to join in family celebrations or activities; however, you don't need to do so. All players will have time off during the holidays.  

Have questions or comments? We'd love to hear from you. Contact us today and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.