The Black Bear National Academy is reaching out to the Greater Philadelphia Area community for support by becoming billet families for the upcoming 2026-2027 hockey season. This tradition in ice hockey fosters special bonds and long-lasting relationships between players and their host families, often lasting well beyond the hockey season.
Billet families are crucial in providing a stable and supportive home environment for young athletes who are away from their own families. Players will stay with their host families from early August until the end of the season in late March or until the school year concludes in May or June. Host families are expected to provide room and board, including a bedroom, nutritious meals, and a welcoming environment that treats the player as part of the family.
Hosting a player not only supports the athlete’s development but also enriches the lives of the billet family members. Families receive a monthly stipend of $600 per player they host, and they may host more than one player per season.
