Billeting
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For players joining the Columbus Mavericks from outside the Columbus area, finding the right place to live isn't just a logistics problem — it's the foundation of a successful season. That's why billeting is a cornerstone of how we support our players. Every out-of-town player on our roster is placed with a local host family for the duration of the season, giving them a stable, supportive home environment where they can focus on hockey, continue to grow as young adults, and feel genuinely connected to the Columbus community.
What is billeting?
Billeting is the practice of placing junior hockey players with local host families for the season. Rather than living in hotels or apartments, players live as part of a household — sharing meals, routines, and day-to-day life with a family that has chosen to welcome them in. For many players, their billet family becomes one of the most meaningful relationships of their hockey career.
Who Makes a Great billet Family?
There's no single profile. Billet families include households with young children, families with teenagers who share a love of hockey, and empty-nesters looking to bring some energy back into the home. What they share is a willingness to open their door, a genuine interest in the wellbeing of a young athlete, and the patience and warmth to serve as a home base for someone who is far from their own family.
Billet families are not expected to be coaches or counselors — simply good people who provide a stable, caring environment.
What Does hosting Involve?
Billet families provide players with a comfortable living environment for the duration of the season, including:
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A furnished private bedroom, or a shared bedroom with one other Mavericks player, with bed linens and storage space
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Access to a private or shared bathroom with bath linens
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Healthy, nutritious meals and snacks
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Access to WiFi, a television, and laundry facilities
The Columbus Mavericks welcome players from across the United States, Canada, and internationally each season beginning in mid-August. Players typically remain with their billet families through mid-to-late March, depending on the team's playoff schedule.
Become a Billet Family
If you live in the greater Columbus area and are interested in hosting a Mavericks player during the upcoming season, we'd love to hear from you. Hosting is one of the most direct and meaningful ways to support the program — and for most families who do it, it's an experience they wouldn't trade.