The Billet Tradition in Hockey
For decades, the billet (host family) program has been the backbone of elite junior and academy hockey in North America. When talented young athletes leave home to pursue their hockey dreams, they need more than a place to sleep — they need a second family. Billet families open their homes and their hearts to provide the stability, encouragement, and daily support that allow student-athletes to thrive both on the ice and in the classroom.
At SSS Academy, our Billet Program is exclusively for hockey student-athletes in Grades 9–12 who relocate to Phoenix to train at Fire 'n' Ice Sports Arena. As a billet family, you become an essential part of a young athlete's journey toward college hockey, junior hockey, or beyond — and in return, you gain a rewarding experience that creates lifelong bonds.
Why Become a Billet Family?
Monthly Stipend
Receive $700 per month per player to help cover groceries and household costs. Paid directly to your family for the 10-month season (August–May).
Arena Perks
Enjoy complimentary admission to all SSS Academy home games, discounts at Glacier Café and the Pro Shop, and free public skating passes for your household.
Lifelong Bonds
Mentor a driven young athlete and become part of their journey. Many billet families maintain relationships with their players for life — attending college games, weddings, and more.
Community & Events
Invitations to exclusive billet family appreciation events, team dinners, and recognition nights at our 2,500-seat venue. You become part of the Fire 'n' Ice family.
What You Provide as a Host Family
Billet families create a home-away-from-home environment. Here is what the academy expects from every host family:
Room & Board
- Private Bedroom: A furnished bedroom for the player (or shared with one other billet player, if agreed upon).
- Daily Meals: Nutritious breakfast, lunch provisions, dinner, and snacks. Players are student-athletes with high caloric needs.
- Laundry Facilities: Access to washer and dryer for the player's personal and athletic clothing.
- Wi-Fi & Study Space: Reliable internet and a quiet area for homework and online coursework.
Transportation & Daily Life
- Arena Transportation: Assistance with rides to and from Fire 'n' Ice Sports Arena for practices, games, and training sessions.
- School Transportation: Help with transportation to school or ensure the player can access their online learning environment.
- Family Integration: Include the player in family activities, meals, and outings when appropriate — treat them as a member of your household.
Structure & Support
- House Rules: Enforce academy curfews and behavioral expectations (provided by the academy).
- Academic Support: Encourage study habits and communicate with the academy about academic progress.
- Emotional Support: Be a caring, stable presence. Many players experience homesickness, especially early in the season.
- Communication: Maintain regular contact with the Billet Coordinator and the player's parents/guardians.
USA Hockey SafeSport & Player Safety
The safety of every student-athlete is our highest priority. Our Billet Program is fully compliant with USA Hockey SafeSport requirements and the Arizona Amateur Hockey Association (AAHA) billeting policies. These protocols exist to protect both players and host families.
Mandatory Requirements for All Billet Families
| ✅ | USA Hockey Registration — All adults (18+) living in the household must be registered with USA Hockey for the current season. |
| ✅ | SafeSport Training — All adults must complete the Core SafeSport Training (first year) or annual Refresher Course (returning families). This free online course takes approximately 90 minutes. |
| ✅ | Background Screening — All adults must pass a comprehensive background check in accordance with the USA Hockey Screening Policy. The academy covers the cost of all background checks. |
| ✅ | Home Visit & Interview — The SSS Academy Billet Coordinator will conduct an in-person home visit and interview with all household members before placement. |
| ✅ | Player Limit — Maximum of 2 players per household, per USA Hockey policy (updated December 2024). |
| ✅ | Written Agreement — A formal billet agreement is signed between the host family, the player's parents/guardians, and SSS Academy outlining expectations, responsibilities, and emergency protocols. |
Ongoing Safety & Oversight
- Dedicated Billet Coordinator: A full-time staff member oversees all placements, conducts regular check-ins, and serves as the primary point of contact for families and players.
- Regular Home Visits: Periodic visits throughout the season to ensure a positive living environment.
- 24/7 Emergency Line: Both families and players have access to a 24-hour emergency contact.
- Open Communication: Monthly check-in calls with the player's parents/guardians, facilitated by the Billet Coordinator.
- Conflict Resolution: If any issues arise, the Billet Coordinator mediates promptly. In rare cases, re-placement to another family is handled swiftly and discreetly.
How to Become a Billet Family — Step by Step
Submit Your Application
Complete the Billet Family Application form below. Provide information about your household, home setup, and why you are interested in hosting. There is no obligation at this stage — this is an expression of interest.
Interview & Home Visit
Our Billet Coordinator will contact you to schedule an in-person meeting. This includes a casual interview with all household members and a walkthrough of your home to ensure a suitable living space for the player.
Complete Compliance Requirements
All adults in the home complete USA Hockey registration, SafeSport Training, and background screening. The academy covers all screening costs and provides step-by-step guidance through the process. This typically takes 1–2 weeks.
Player Matching
We carefully pair players and families based on lifestyle, household composition, pets, allergies, dietary needs, and preferences. You will receive the player's profile and have the opportunity to speak with their parents before confirming the match.
Sign the Billet Agreement
A formal written agreement is signed by the host family, the player's parents/guardians, and SSS Academy. This document outlines responsibilities, house rules, emergency protocols, financial terms, and the process for resolving any concerns.
Welcome Your Player — Move-In Day
Players arrive in August 2026 for the start of the season. The Billet Coordinator facilitates introductions and is available throughout the transition period to ensure a smooth start for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the billet season?
The season runs approximately 10 months, from August through May. Some players may depart earlier if their team's season ends, or stay slightly longer for playoff commitments.
Can I host more than one player?
Yes, you may host up to 2 players maximum per USA Hockey policy. Each player must have their own bed (they may share a room if both players and families agree). The monthly stipend applies per player.
What ages are the players?
SSS Academy hockey student-athletes are typically 14–18 years old (Grades 9–12). During the matching process, you can indicate if you have a preference for a specific age range.
Do I need hockey experience?
Absolutely not. You do not need to know anything about hockey. What matters most is that you can provide a safe, supportive, and welcoming home environment. Many of our best billet families had no hockey background before hosting.
What if there is a problem with the placement?
The Billet Coordinator is your first point of contact for any concerns. Issues are addressed promptly and confidentially. In rare cases where a placement is not working, the academy will arrange a re-placement to another approved family.
Are the background checks and training free?
Yes. SSS Academy covers the cost of all background screenings. SafeSport Training is a free online course provided by the U.S. Center for SafeSport. We guide you through every step of the compliance process.
What about holidays and school breaks?
Players typically return to their own families for major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas/New Year). The academy coordinates travel schedules in advance. During shorter breaks, players may remain with the billet family or travel with the team.