Timmins Billet Families Open Homes to Hockey Players, Creating Bonds

UPDATE: Timmins families are stepping up this hockey season, opening their homes to young athletes and creating lasting connections. Local billet parents, including Bob McIntyre and Shawna Pettyjohn, are sharing heartfelt stories of their experiences hosting players from the Timmins Rock, a junior hockey team.

Every weekend, Bob McIntyre, affectionately known as the ‘Hockey Billet Dad’, prepares homemade blueberry pancakes for Liam Wells, a star forward for the Rock. For over 20 years, McIntyre has been entrenched in the hockey community, serving mainly as a trainer or manager. “When I bought my house, my niece reminded me of my dream to billet players,” McIntyre shared. “Next thing you know, I had a hockey player moving in, and that was four years ago.”

Pictures of past and present players line the walls of his kitchen, showcasing a legacy of love and support. “It’s just great to have someone around the house,” McIntyre said. “They’re all great kids, and they’re focused on serious hockey.”

Wells, originally from Oshawa, is in his second season with McIntyre. “He takes good care of me, feeds me well, and it’s just nice to have someone around, especially after a tough game,” Wells expressed. The camaraderie extends beyond meals; taco Tuesdays are also a highlight for the young player.

Meanwhile, Shawna Pettyjohn has embraced the billet lifestyle, hosting Jaden Lyons, the Rock’s number 23. “He feels like part of our family,” Pettyjohn noted, reflecting on her west coast roots and her husband’s Timmins heritage. “Growing up, I had hockey billet brothers; it was such a good experience that I wanted my family to share it too.”

Pettyjohn praised the Timmins community’s unparalleled support for its hockey team. “Nothing can compare to Timmins; the energy here is amazing,” she said. Both McIntyre and Pettyjohn emphasized that once players move into their homes, they become part of the family.

The emotional impact of hosting these young athletes is profound. “Billeting has been rewarding for us,” Pettyjohn added. “I recommend it to anyone—especially those who enjoy a laid-back lifestyle.”

As the hockey season progresses, these families continue to foster connections that go beyond the rink. Families in Timmins are encouraged to consider becoming billets, contributing to a community that celebrates sportsmanship, support, and teamwork.

This heartwarming initiative highlights the profound bonds formed through the shared love of hockey, illustrating how these families make a significant difference in the lives of young athletes. The experiences and stories shared by the billet families serve as a reminder of the power of community in nurturing talent and character.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Timmins Rock and the impact of billet families in the local hockey scene.