We understand that an athlete in a foreign country—away from their parents and fully immersed in studies and training—should never feel disconnected from home.

That is why we offer accommodation with a full host family that provides the comfortable conditions essential for your young student-athlete’s well-being.

During your first visit to Bratislava, you will have the opportunity to meet the family hosting student-athletes enrolled in the Academy. For optimal cooperation between the gymnasium and the club, as well as for effective discipline management and the development of self-study skills, it is best for children to stay with either your agent’s family or the families of future teammates, as prearranged. To this end, we have host families that offer spacious, bright, two-level apartments located near the hockey stadium. If the accommodation is farther away, the host family will provide transportation to and from school.

Your agent will arrange a meeting so you can:

• Meet the family members.
• See the living conditions.
• Interact with other athletes already residing with the family.

Student-athletes live in dedicated rooms shared by two, enjoying full comfort and all necessary amenities. The home-like atmosphere created by these families—whose focus is on nurturing and supporting young athletes—will help the student adapt to the new environment.

A home-cooked meal, the absence of everyday household hassles, and attentive care from adults allow the athlete to concentrate on both studies and training while giving parents the peace of mind that their child is in good hands. Living with a host family is an important stage for a teenager away from home. At this age, it is especially crucial to maintain a structured daily routine, academic performance, proper nutrition, and extracurricular interests.

Your agent will be available 24/7 to provide feedback on all matters related to your child’s academic progress, well-being, and mood. All organizational issues regarding the club or school are also managed by the agent. When a visit to the doctor is necessary, an adult family member will accompany the child. The host family fulfills its responsibilities as mandated, ensuring the protection and care of the child.

Billet families (or host families) are households that welcome young student-athletes—often from abroad—to live with them during their education and participation in sports teams. This practice is widespread in junior hockey leagues such as the CHL, USHL, NAHL, and NCAA. Our Academy employs a similar approach. Billet families give young athletes the opportunity to focus on their careers while living in close proximity to both the gymnasium and the team.

Living with such families teaches young athletes responsibility, encourages participation in family life, and helps them represent the Academy in the local community. Cultural exchange is an important aspect of the program, enabling young student-athletes to become acquainted with local traditions and lifestyles. This is especially significant for players from countries like Russia, Kazakhstan, Belarus, and other European states who are adapting to a new culture.

Many billet families maintain long-term relationships with the athletes they have hosted and continue to support their careers even after the accommodation period has ended. Being part of a billet program is a unique experience that combines sports and family values, helping young athletes feel “at home” even when they are far from their own families.