08/25/2026
Since joining the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League (KIJHL) in 1991, the Golden Rockets have been a cornerstone of local sports pride. From their early days as an expansion team to their memorable playoff runs and communityโdriven revival, the Rockets have carried Goldenโs spirit onto the ice season after season.
Over the years, the team has seen name changes โ the Golden Xtreme and Golden Jets โ before returning to their original identity in 2008. Through highs and lows, the Rockets have remained a symbol of perseverance, teamwork, and smallโtown passion. Their home rink, the Golden Arena, affectionately known as the Plywood Palace, has hosted countless thrilling games and fostered generations of young athletes chasing their hockey dreams.
Behind every successful junior hockey program stands a network of billet families โ the unsung heroes who open their homes to players arriving from across Canada. These families provide more than a bed and meals; they offer stability, encouragement, and a sense of belonging that helps young athletes thrive both on and off the ice.
As the new season begins and players start arriving in Golden, the Rockets are once again seeking billet homes. Becoming a billet family is a rewarding way to support local hockey, build lasting friendships, and play a vital role in shaping the future of these young men.
If youโve ever cheered from the stands or felt proud seeing the Rockets represent our town, consider taking that support one step further โ become a billet family and help keep the Rocketsโ legacy strong.
For more information, visit goldenrockets.com/billeting or contact the team directly to learn how you can get involved.
Photo credit Jamie Fitzgerald. 2018.
