With training camp around the corner, the Moose Jaw Warriors are putting out a call for billet families — either permanent and temporary — to open their homes to players arriving for the 2025–26 season.
Ryan Stephenson, billet coordinator for the WHL club, said players are expected to start arriving as early as August 25, with the team needing several more families to step forward in the next couple of weeks.
“Players come from all over the country to play for our city,” he said. “Part of the program includes that families from the community open up their homes and give the players a safe, welcoming place to stay while they're here playing for the team."
Stephenson said he's open to calls from any potential billet families and will answer any questions. He also noted that a kind of home inspection is part of the process.
"I'll go over the process with you a little bit more in detail, come out and meet with you at the home. We do ask that the players have access to a private bedroom and we ultimately would like a situation where they're incorporated into the family. Young families are great, families with children are excellent — a lot of these guys make wonderful role models for the children. We just look to try and make them as comfortable as we can during their stay here in Moose Jaw."
Stephenson said a monthly stipend is provided along with two free full-season tickets per player taken in. However, he emphasized the experience ends up being more important.
“The stipend is helpful, of course, but honestly, the best benefit is the bond you build,” he said. “Those relationships often outlast the player’s time with your family. Some billet parents stay in touch with the player’s parents, even attend weddings. They truly become part of your extended family.”
The typical commitment runs from late August through to March, or as late as June depending on how far the team advances in the playoffs. Shorter-term billets are also needed, especially during training camps or high-traffic times in the season.
“We just want to hear from people who might be curious,” he said. “Even if you can only billet temporarily, that still helps us out. And I’ll walk anyone through the process personally.”
There is no hard deadline, but Stephenson is hoping to have several placements confirmed within the next two weeks.
“They’ll start arriving within the month,” he said. “So the sooner families reach out, the better.”
Interested families should call Stephenson directly at 306-209-5867.