BILLET FAMILIES CONTINUE TO BE THE LIFEBLOOD OF JUNIOR HOCKEY

Written by Mark Payne

08/20/2025 

The Olds Grizzlys are set to begin their 40thseason in the AJHL with new life in the Owners Suite as well as behind the bench. New Owner Moe Jamal and Head Coach Tyson Soloski’s staff are excited to welcome the players for Training Camp, and the Grizzlys staff have been hard at work throughout the summer months in preparation for the 2025-26 AJHL Season. 

The Billet Family is the lifeblood of Junior hockey, and here in Olds this season, it’s no different. I had a chance to meet with a few of the families earlier this month, who again are excited to add a hockey player to their family in the Central Alberta community. The Smith and Pears families graciously gave us their time on a summer’s evening and explained the impact billeting a Junior A hockey player has had on their family. 

It’s not just a warm bed players and dinners. The players take part in all aspects of family life. Former players have been known to become long-term members of families; and years down the road it is not uncommon for players to invite their Billet Families to games at the professional level and remain in contact for their entire careers. 

Olds, Alberta, has a rich tradition within the community and continues to provide opportunities for players to develop at the highest level. In saying this, it could not be done without the help of the entire Mountain View Community and all the Billet Families that open their homes to our players each season. Thank you! 

Please reach out to Julie at the Grizzlys Box Office for more information. She can be reached via e-mail at [email protected] 

Written by Mark Payne @hockeypayne 

Director of Community Engagement – Olds Grizzlys Junior A Hockey Club