Over the course of the last week I have heard that the Humboldt Broncos are in desperate need of homes for their players.
This is slightly concerning to me.
How can a city of 5,869, according to the 2016 census, not have enough homes to allow 25 players a place to stay?
I understand that there are a number of factors that are in play including concerns over finances, not having the facilities for them, and concerns over allowing a teenager to stay in your home.
But a number of those concerns are easily fixed.
Billets are paid to welcome players into their homes, and the Broncos have agreements worked out with businesses who provide discounts on food purchases, making the financial hit much less impactful.
Welcoming a teenager in your home is a legitimate concern but one of the things the Broncos do is provide a Billet Guide.
The guide outlines a number of ground rules, which the players and billets must follow.
And while they are teenagers, they do almost become part of the billets’ family, notes Billet Coordinator Kathleen Keen.
That is one of the biggest benefits to becoming a billet, notes Keen, is that the bond created between billet and player is very powerful.
Now I have to admit, I am kind of like the pot calling the kettle black as I do not billet either, but I also do not have the proper facilities to house a player.
But for those who have the space I am surprised that they do not take the opportunity.
If you are going to a Broncos game anyway, would it not be more meaningful if you had a true connection to a player?
It would be like watching your own child play.
Being a billet is a great opportunity to do a good deed to the city and also the Broncos, and is a great opportunity to build a bond with one of the players.
If you have the space why not give it a try?
