Host families are an integral part of any summer collegiate baseball team and are the lifeblood of the team’s success. The NorthPaws roster is comprised of college athletes from across North America, who will call Kamloops home for two and a half months in the summer. As a host family, you are providing a ‘home away from home’ for your players during the NorthPaws season. In return, you will gain a memorable summer experience and most likely, a long-lasting friendship. Host families often refer to their players as an adopted member of their family, as you form a bond that will last far beyond the end of the season.
The NorthPaws receive great media coverage and the team presents an opportunity for these young adults to learn how to be professional baseball players. The NorthPaws’ season is relatively short but is very demanding. The West Coast League (WCL) season sees the NorthPaws play a minimum of 54 games, plus playoffs. During this busy season, your NorthPaws players will have 27 of these games on the road.
Should the team qualify for the WCL playoffs, the season could be extended into mid-August. Accordingly, host families are required for our players from the beginning of June until mid-August.
Expectations of a Host Family
Your primary role as a host family is to provide a safe and pleasant home environment for your player(s) for the duration of the season. Players will require comfortable sleeping quarters and access to a bathroom (with bedding & towels) as well as laundry equipment for their personal clothes (the team launders their uniforms). Families should be prepared to provide food for 2 meals per day (breakfast & dinner). Transportation to and from the field is not required but is gratefully appreciated if and when you are able. The majority of home games start at 6:35 pm and typically players are expected at the field early afternoon. When they arrive home late after the game, they will most likely need access to the shower.
Let your player know your house rules as they apply to your player and feel free to include them in family gatherings, dinner, outings, etc.
Compensation
In addition to NorthPaws season tickets, a small stipend is provided to assist with the cost of groceries.
If you are interested, please contact the Host Family Coordinator at billeting@northpawsbaseball.ca or call the office at 250-299-5247.