Behind Every Rocket Is a Home: The Steiger Family’s Billet Journey
KELOWNA, BC— For Ashley Steiger and her husband, being a Kelowna Rockets billet family is more than a title; it’s a lifestyle, a commitment, and one of the most meaningful things they’ve ever done.
“We’ve been around the Rockets for years as season ticket holders,” Ashley explains. “We talked about, ‘What would we want if our boys played hockey and lived with a billet family?’ Now we have the opportunity to create that for our Rocket boys.”
Since stepping into the role, the Steigers have welcomed several Rockets into their home, each with their own stories, personalities, routines, and dreams. In just the last season alone, they billeted Jaxon Kehrig, Brett Calhoon, Hayden Paupanekis, and Gabriel O’Brien.
“I never knew how much I would become attached to them. Whether they were here for a few days, a few months, or half the season.”
A Home, Not Just a House
While routines may vary based on game schedules and school demands, the days are full: early breakfasts, training at the rink, afternoon classes, evening dinners, and yes, plenty of snacks.
“When we meal plan, sometimes we pick nights for the boys to cook, especially on a week with not so many games. The boys are responsible for taking care of their laundry and cleaning their bedrooms. If the driveway needs a shovel or a dog needs to go for a walk, it’s just a matter of asking.”
The Emotional Side of Billeting
One of the most surprising things for Ashley? How hard it is to say goodbye.
“My first billet, when he was traded, I cried for 3 days. If I’m being totally truthful, I’ve cried after everyone of them has left. We have been through trades, a player being released, injury, and aging out.”
But the connections don’t end when the hockey season does. The Steigers still keep in touch with every player they’ve hosted. Many continue to text, call, or visit. The guys still have their door codes and use them.
“I can say, though, that we still have contact with all of them. Any of the boys that are playing elsewhere, we still follow them, watch the games when we can or attend them. The boys reach out to wish me a “Happy Birthday” or a “Billet Momma Day.”
A Lasting Impact on the Community
Billet families don’t just impact the players; they affect entire neighbourhoods. Local kids on the Steigers’ street take pride in knowing Rockets players live nearby.
“Our neighbours love it. The kids think it’s the coolest thing ever that a WHL player lives on their block.”
Ashley remembers how a fellow billet mom facilitated her initial steps by organizing a preseason “appie night” where new billet families could ask questions and feel at ease. Now, she’s planning to do the same for others.
“I look forward to hosting this preseason to do the same for new billets and catch up with returning families! This is something we will do for as long as the Rockets are in Kelowna!”
Why Should You Become a Billet?
If you’ve ever considered becoming a billet, Ashley has one simple message: TRY IT!
“Just try it for a season.”
Opening your home to a young athlete means giving them a support system, a soft landing spot in a high-pressure world. You’re not just providing room and board. You’re helping raise the next generation of leaders, professionals, and teammates.
And in return? You gain sons, memories, and lifelong connections.
Interested in becoming a Rockets Billet Family?
Learn more and apply today at chl.ca/whl-rockets/billet-family-application
