host a Rhythm Player
The Full Count Rhythm baseball team is looking for families that would like to be a part of our Host Family program. Rhythm players will come from all around the country to play in the Ohio Valley League. As NCAA student athletes, these players are not allowed to accept pay for play, so they will need a place to sleep for the summer.
We’re looking for 25 to 30 families to partner with us this season by providing housing for our Full Count Rhythm players. Being a Host Family can be a tremendous experience for families with younger children and also empty nesters. You’ll play an important role in each player’s summer experience!
What is the OVL?
The Ohio Valley League is a collegiate league that gives players a chance to develop and showcase their skills in a minor league type setting. The Ohio Valley Baseball League has quickly become a premier collegiate summer league where loyal hometown fans can enjoy high level competitive baseball practically in their own backyards. Aspiring college athletes from all over the country continue their seasonal play in the summer months playing for experienced coaches and faculty and continue to grow into professional athletes. Since October of 2010 the Ohio Valley League has grown to be a top wooden bat league in our division following NCAA rules.
Qualifications of Players
To play in the OVL, each player must be active on a collegiate roster with at least one year of eligibility remaining. As an organization, we strive to put a quality product on the field. We also understand the importance of bringing a quality citizen into the community. Each player comes to us at the recommendation of his college coaches.
Living Requirements and Length of stay
The minimal requirement is that players have access to a clean bedroom, bathroom, and laundry. More is always accepted but not required; host families are welcome to include the player in family meals and activities. Most players have odd hours due to the nature of games and the team’s travel schedule. Odd hours result in odd eating schedules, so being OK with a midnight fridge raid is encouraged.
The season runs from late May through the end of July. Players will start showing up just after their college season ends, typically around memorial day. The OVL regular season ends towards the end of July followed by postseason play. Players would stay no longer than the end of the OVL postseason.
How the FC Rhythm Program will help you
Whether we are at home or on the road, the players get a pregame snack and a full postgame meal. If a player does not have transportation, we will try and place them near a teammate who does, so they can carpool together. Upon arrival we will address with the players the expectations of their host families and we suggest that you do the same. If any issues arise, we will solve the problem, move the player, or, if need be, send the player home.
Perks Of Hosting
Hosting a player can be a Fulfilling experience. We hope to foster a good relationship for both the player and family. Rhythm players are excellent role models for young children and teenagers and are great company for the entire house-hold. Players and host families can share a friendship that will last well beyond the end of the season.
The atmosphere at games is one of a community, with host families at the heart. Each host family will receive a season pass to all home games. Full Count Rhythm will host a gathering for the host families and players at the start of the season and will recognize host families on the field during a Rhythm game. There is always the outside chance of housing a future big-leaguer, and helping a young man chase his dreams but the most important perk of hosting a player is the opportunity of investing in a young man’s life! Hosting is sure to be rewarding.
Ready to host?
Whether you are ready to become a summer-long host family, or just a temporary host, thank you for your support, and we look forward to you being part of the Full Count Rhythm family!
Still have questions or concerns, contact Josh Carman at 615-478-0877 or jcarman@fullcountministries.com