Housing Testimonials

2 players who became our third and fourth sons

Not too long ago we saw an article in the Gazette announcing the return of Jr. “A” hockey to Kalamazoo.  This news brought thoughtful smiles to our faces as we began to think back to our time as a “housing family” several years back.  Then a few days later a call from Stacey asking if we would write a short note about our experience.  We are not sure a short note can do it justice but here goes.
 
When approached by Paul to enlist our help in housing a teenage hockey player we not only had a million questions but little did we know the impact our decision would have on us.  With hockey-playing twin sons in middle school, hockey had already become part of our lives so that part was easy - who wouldn’t want to watch another hockey game or two a week??
 
Apprehension, nervous, worried were all part of the emotional roller coaster as the time grew near for the big arrival day.  Would he be comfortable?  Could we provide the environment and/or life style he needed to make his dreams of continuing on in hockey come true.  Would another member of the household detract from or enrich our boys lives?  Could we provide the emotional support he needed as he was embarking on a new part of his life.  Moving away from home, new school, new coach, strange city, new team mates all a lot to throw at a 16 year old.  As we look back all those worries seem very small.  We made life long friends with him and his family - we traveled to away games and national tournaments with his parents.  We spent holidays with them.  We still after all these years occasionally get together.  He was an excellent role model for our boys - they learned how much effort must be given to excel not only in hockey but in anything you are trying to accomplish in life.
 
Don’t get us wrong there were bumps in the road but boy we’d be hard pressed to name them as we think back to the four years and 2 players who became our third and fourth sons.
 
Tim and Deb VonEitzen

Hosting a hockey player in your home can build lasting friendships that grow to far beyond the hockey season

Hosting a hockey player in your home-as a billet family- can build lasting friendships that grow far beyond the hockey season. Like going off to college and moving into a dorm, there are ups and downs, times for laughter and times for compromise and learning to live successfully with others.

Beginning with the first Jr. K-Wings team, we provided housing for Brian, Harold, Todd, Mike, Brent, and Efren. Laundry, meals, quiet time for homework, practice at the rink, eyes on the clock for curfew, talking to family on the phone- the daily schedule for a Junior "A" hockey player is somewhat like the schedule of the average teenager. Parents provide space, food, and emotional support.

After all the years, we still have contact with five of our six players, who have all grown into outstanding men. Their college hockey experience, marriage, and babies born have enriched their lives and ours.

David and Nancy LaLiberte