Families across Hopkins County have a unique opportunity to be part of the Madisonville Miners story this summer. Each season, collegiate athletes from across the country travel to Madisonville to compete in the Ohio Valley League as part of the Madisonville Miners and we rely on local families to help welcome them by providing a home during their stay.
We are still seeking 15 host families to welcome to the Miners family this year. Opening your home to a player can be a meaningful and memorable experience, whether you have young kids who love baseball or you’re an empty nester looking to stay connected to the excitement of summer ball. Host families become an important part of each player’s journey, offering support, encouragement, and a sense of belonging that lasts long after the season ends.
What the Ohio Valley League Represents
The Ohio Valley League is a summer home for collegiate baseball players looking to sharpen their skills in a competitive, minor‑league‑style environment. It’s become one of the region’s standout wooden‑bat leagues, offering hometown fans the chance to enjoy high‑level baseball right here in our own communities. Each summer, student‑athletes from across the country join OVL teams to continue their development under experienced coaches while following NCAA guidelines. Since its start in 2010, the league has grown into a respected destination for players chasing their dreams of playing professionally.
Who Makes Up a Miners Roster
Every athlete on a Miner’s roster must be an active college player with at least one year of eligibility remaining. Teams work closely with college coaches to ensure each player is not only talented on the field but also a positive representative of their school and community. Character matters just as much as baseball ability, and every player arrives with a recommendation from their coaching staff.
What Host Families Provide
Host families offer players a clean, comfortable place to stay during the season that must include access to a bedroom, a bathroom, laundry & kitchen facilities and the internet. Anything beyond that is completely up to the family. Many hosts enjoy including their player, in meals or family activities, but it’s not required. Because of late games, travel, and unpredictable schedules, players often keep unusual hours. So, a friendly attitude toward the occasional midnight snack run is always appreciated.
When Players Arrive and How Long They Stay
The season runs from late May through the end of July. Players usually arrive shortly after their college seasons wrap up, often around Memorial Day. They stay through the end of the regular season and postseason, but never beyond the conclusion of OVL play.
How the Miners Support Host Families
Whether the team is at home or on the road, players receive a full post‑game meal and snacks. If a player doesn’t have transportation, we do our best to place them near a teammate who does so they can carpool. When players arrive, we walk them through expectations for living with a host family, and we encourage families to share their own household guidelines as well. If any concerns come up, the Miners staff will step in quickly to resolve the issue, relocate the player if needed, or make other arrangements.
Why Hosting Matters
Hosting a Miners player is a meaningful experience that often leads to lasting friendships. Players become role models for younger kids, great company for the whole household, and part of the family before the summer is over. Many host families stay in touch with their players long after the season ends.
Host families receive a season pass to all home games, and we celebrate them throughout the summer. We kick off the season with a potluck dinner for players and hosts prior to opening night, and we recognize host families on the field during a Miners game. Families are also invited to additional events throughout the season. But the biggest perk is knowing you’ve made a real difference in a young athlete’s life.
Ready to Join the Miners Family?
Whether you’re interested in hosting for the full summer or stepping in as a temporary host when needed, we’re grateful for your support. We can’t wait to welcome you into the Miners family and share an unforgettable season together.
Apply to be a host family below by
Online Application: https://form.jotform.com/260644882388066
OR
Download and submit the PDF Application by Email or Mail:
PDF Applications should be filled out and returned via email to Kenneth Root at [email protected] or mailed to Madisonville Miners, PO Box 236, Madisonville, KY 42421.
For more info Kenneth can be reached at 270-339-7134.