The Chatham-Kent Barnstormers are seeking host families

The Barnstormers are seeking out the Chatham-Kent area for families who would voluntarily host a player for the upcoming 2024 season.  Host families are a huge tradition in baseball and give a chance to players to really take part in the community. As a host family you provide a baseball player with a "home away from home". During the summer you get an inside look into minor league baseball and help a young man follow his dream to make the big leagues.
Players come from each side of the country and some from other parts of the world and they need to be lodged during the season from May to September. Some players will receive the benefit of a total immersion to the Canadian culture in host families.
The Barnstormers want to establish a top program to offer players a unique chance to enjoy their summer in Ontario. One of our prospects said, « In my situation, I can’t afford an apartment for the summer. Plus, a host family is a great way to make new life-long friends ».
Our Host a Barnstormers’ player program is a great way to get to know our players and go above and beyond supporting your local IBL team.
Why do we need host families?
Our players do not make a salary and finding a job or an apartment for only 4 months is very difficult for them. Host families are also a huge help for players adjusting to life as a baseball player, which can be quite rigorous. Some of them don’t even have a vehicle to go to the ballpark, and they will be walking to our home ballpark.
What does hosting a Barnstormers’ player entail?
A player will need his own bedroom (one he could share if you host 2 players) and access to a washroom and laundry room. We will provide meals for the players after every game or practice day. That means you don’t have to cook for them unless you want to provide them with home-cooked food. They will be very grateful. We will give them some meal money on game day.
What do we offer Host Families?
A special invitation at the exclusive player meets and greet BBQ before the season
A Family Season Pass for the season to come and cheer for your player and club
$500 for accommodations
An invitation to the exclusive team banquet at the end of the season
VIP card with 20% Off any club merchandise at the club shop
Your child could participate as the bat-boy/girl for the club
If you are interested in hosting 1 to 2 players, please contact Dom at 1-877-346-3553 or by email at info@ckiblbaseball.com