Grizzlies looking for host families for the 2019 season!
Kay Jones hit a home run when she was looking for something to do after retiring. 
Her experience with being a host family director for the Gateway Grizzlies baseball team, Kay understands the importance of matching players with local families who are willing to open their home during the 4 month season.
“All my host families take the players into their homes and treat them like their own sons.” Jones said.
“They eat meals together. Families attend home games and cheer them on. Most provide food at home after each game and give them snacks to take along on road trips.”
“We love helping the players. We take them in & treat them as family from day one. We miss them when they leave in September & cannot wait for the season to start in May. We stay in touch with many players----attend weddings, graduations, & many other activities. We now have a very, very large family!"
The Host Family Program is a vital part to the success of the team and accommodates players with a home away-from-home during the season. Families are expected to offer a private bedroom, providing meals is optional, and must be very understanding of a baseball player’s hectic schedule.
The responsibilities of a host family are minimal for the chance to build a bond with a Grizzlies player that can last a lifetime!
As a host family, you receive multiple perks and privileges, but the greatest benefit of all is the chance to witness first-hand the exciting, invigorating, and occasional heartbreak experiences that these young men face as they live their dream of playing professional baseball.
In return for their generosity and support, during the season a host family receives season tickets, discounts and food at the stadium. They earn a shirt, a party suite on host family appreciation night, and rewarding friendships that will last forever!
Kay and her husband, Ken, along with many other host families, rave about their positive experiences with housing the players. Mr. Groennert, a host family veteran, looks forward to another summer of hosting Grizzlies ballplayers.
“Each summer has been special. It is a blessing and privilege to host the players who come from many regions of our country. Each player provides a positive contribution to my life. I've had only great experiences. The players have given me more than I have given them.”