“A home away from home”
Every season, young hockey players from across the Maritimes, and sometimes beyond, leave their hometowns to join the Lightning Chaleur. For many, it’s their first time living away from home. That’s where our Billet Program comes in.
Becoming a billet family means more than just offering a room, it’s about welcoming a player into your household, supporting their personal and athletic development, and being part of a community that’s helping shape the future of junior hockey. These relationships often last far beyond the hockey season.
Why Billet?
The Junior A hockey lifestyle is demanding. Players juggle early morning practices, team meetings, games, school or part-time work, and travel. A stable and supportive home environment can make all the difference… providing comfort, balance, and encouragement through the highs and lows of a busy season.
Billet families offer players a sense of routine and belonging that allows them to focus on growing as athletes and individuals. In return, many families form lasting bonds with their billet players, often following their careers and maintaining contact for years to come.
Who Can Be a Billet?
Billet families come in all shapes and sizes:
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Couples with children
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Empty-nesters
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Single parents
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Retirees with extra space and big hearts
The most important qualities are kindness, communication, and a willingness to open your home to a young adult pursuing their dreams.
Some families host players for the full season (late August through March or April), while others may offer short-term stays during training camp or pre-season.
What’s Expected of Billet Families?
Billets are asked to provide:
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A clean and private bedroom
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Nutritious meals and snacks
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A respectful and welcoming household environment
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Open communication with our billet coordinator when needed
What’s Expected of Players?
Our players understand they are guests in your home and are expected to:
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Respect your home and household rules
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Maintain good time management, especially around curfew, school, and practices
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Communicate openly and responsibly
What Do Billets Receive?
In appreciation for your contribution, billet families receive:
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A monthly stipend to help cover food and living costs
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Two season tickets to enjoy Lightning Chaleur home games
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Invitations to team events and an end-of-season recognition
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A front-row seat to the growth of tomorrow’s hockey stars, both on and off the ice
How to Apply
If you’re interested in learning more or becoming a billet family, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re ready to host this season or just exploring the idea, reach out and we’ll walk you through the process.
Contact our Billet Coordinator:
📧 brittany@chaleurlightning.ca
📞 506-549-3230
Join the Lightning family. Make a difference in a young athlete’s life and discover how they might change yours too.