Host families are an integral part of any summer-collegiate baseball team, and are the lifeblood the team’s success. The HarbourCats roster is comprised of college athletes from across North America, who will all call Victoria home for two and a half months in the summer.
As a host family, you are providing a ‘home away from home’ for your player(s) during the HarbourCats 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 HarbourCats season is relatively short, but is very demanding. The West Coast League (WCL) season sees the HarbourCats play 54 regular season games from June 3rd to August 7th. The HarbourCats will play 4 additional exhibition games in this time, meaning they will play a total of 58 games in just 69 days, 27 of which will be 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, which runs from the start of June until the middle of August.
Players will require comfortable sleeping quarters and access to bathroom (with bedding & towels) as well as laundry equipment.
Families should be prepared to provide food for 2 meals per day (breakfast & lunch) however players may not be home for 2 meals per day. The team will provide dinner and snacks at the stadium on game days.
Let your player know your house rules, as they apply to him. Feel free to include your player in family gatherings, dinner, outings, etc.
Expect your player to arrive home late after night games, which start at 6:35 pm, and will most likely need use of the showers when they arrive.
Transportation to and from the field is not required, but is gratefully appreciated if and when you are able.
Compensation
There is standard compensation to host families, in addition to HarbourCats season tickets.
By becoming a HarbourCats host family, you have the opportunity to play a very important role in the life of a student athlete, and aspiring professional baseball player. In turn, your player will be a positive influence, and will likely form a life long friendship with your family.
If you are interested, please contact Assistant General Manager, Brittany French via email: brittany@harbourcats.com, or by phone: 250-889-3754. You can call our office at 778-265-0327.
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