Host Families

Host a Shark: Welcome a Summer Star to Your Vineyard Home!

Imagine the magic of a Vineyard summer: sunsets over the Sound, beach days between games, and your family cheering on a future MLB hopeful from the front row at the Shark Tank. For the Martha's Vineyard Sharks, that magic starts with you, our incredible host families who open their hearts and homes to college athletes from across the country. We're seeking welcoming local families to join our 2026 host network and create lifelong bonds that make our NECBL season unforgettable.

As the league's attendance leaders (over 60,000 fans in 2025!), the Sharks couldn't bite without you. Each summer, generous Vineyard households provide a true "home away from home," turning what could be a lonely island stint into a transformative adventure. Players arrive as guests and leave as family, sharing stories, beach volleyball sessions, and backyard barbecues that spark enduring friendships. It's rewarding for everyone: Your kids gain role models and mentors, while players soak up the island's laid-back charm and tight-knit community spirit. Together, we're building character, skills, and memories that echo long after the final out.

Hosting is easy. Simple requirements mean more time for fun:

A comfortable bed, linens (sheets, towels and blanket) and shared living space.
Access to laundry facilities.
A parking spot (if needed—many players bike or shuttle).
Help with a few meals (we cover pre- and post-game catering so you can focus on the good stuff).
Host families are not responsible to provide accommodations for a player’s friends or family.
Host families are not expected to provide transportation for any player’s family or friends (either local or to airports).
Host families are not allowed to house any player discharged from the team.

In return, your family dives into the Sharks' world with perks that last a lifetime:

Season Passes: Unlimited access to all home games + playoffs for every family member. Bleachers or grandstand, your call!
Team Photo & Swag: In-season team photo plus custom Sharks host family t-shirts and hats for all host family members.
Exclusive Events: Invites to VIP nights, player meet-and-greets, and our legendary Host Family Weekend bash.
Youth Camp Freebies: Complimentary registration to the Sharks' Future Prospects Summer Camp for your kids (ages 7-13)—hands-on coaching from our stars.
On-Field Glory: Special recognition during our final home game, complete with your hosted player's shoutout and a family photo on the diamond.
Endless Memories: The joy of watching a young athlete grow, plus the pride of fueling a team that's sent over 50 alumni to pro ball.

Ready to host a Shark and make your Vineyard summer even more legendary? Spots fill faster than a Sharky Baserace. Please reach out today to Russ Curran, our Hosting Coordinator, at russ.curran@mvsharks.com (mailto:russ.curran@mvsharks.com) or 508-813-0380. We'll match you with the perfect player and handle the details. Your home could be the launchpad for the next big leaguer. Follow us on Facebook, X, YouTube and Instagram for alerts and updates. Go Sharks!

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What must I provide for the player(s) I host?

At the very least, families are required to supply players with a room, a regular bed, access to laundry and access to the kitchen. Providing the players with food and access to the Internet is not mandatory, but encouraged.

Am I expected to provide my boarder with transportation?

No. Several of the players will drive their own cars, and for those who don’t drive, the team will arrange transportation for them.

How long will the players require housing?

Players are arriving on or around June 1, and the season will span until the end of second week of August. This might be extended a few days in case of playoffs.

Can I host more than one player?

Yes! Those that would like to host multiple players are invited to do so.

Under what guidelines will the players abide?

The athletes are expected to follow and respect each family’s rules, whether it’s a curfew, cleanliness standards or assigned chores. Summer baseball is like a “road test” for what it’s like to be in the majors. It is stressed that they are being judged not just on athletic performance, but the positive image they put forth.

What is a player’s daily itinerary like?

The Sharks will play an approximate 44-game season schedule; those that qualify will participate in the playoffs. Our home games begin around 7PM, they’ll be expected at the field for early-afternoon warm-ups and batting practice. Away games will be in the evening in New Hampshire, Connecticut, Vermont, Maine and Massachusetts. The team will arrive in most cases after the last ferry has departed from Woods Hole. In such cases the team will charter the Patriot (a boat) from Falmouth that will drop them off at R.M. Packers pier behind the Shell station on Beach Road in Vineyard Haven. On their off-days, which will be few, they may work a part-time job. They’re also invited to work at the Sharks baseball camps for kids, speak to groups on behalf of the Sharks and participate in local charity work, such as hospital visits or Habitat for Humanity.

Am I required to attend the games?

No. Many of the host families lined the field at the park to support the team, but it is not required. If you do wish to attend the game you and your family will be given free passes to the game.

Can I choose which player I board?

We will work to accommodate you as best we can.

Please reach out today to Russ Curran, our Hosting Coordinator, at russ.curran@mvsharks.com or 508-813-0380.

CORI REVIEW:

As a matter of common sense, a background check will be made for all host families implementing Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) regulations, which requires that the individual present a completed CORI form (that will be provided by the Sharks) and his or her picture to the MV Regional School Administration building located at 4 Pine Street in Vineyard Haven.