With less than two weeks to go until its debut game, the Albert Lea Lakers collegiate baseball team is still looking for host families for its players.

Families are still needed for 15 more players for the team, according to a press release.

“The most important part of our operation is the host families,” said owner Donnie Roberts. “Without them we don’t have a team.”

Roberts thanked the people who have already signed up to host and said while it is a lot of work, it can be a rewarding experience, too. Housing would be needed for about two months.

The players will come to Albert Lea May 31. He said they play a rigorous schedule — anywhere between four to six games a week — and could play into the early part of August.

According to the release, having college-age players become part of a local family helps them stay grounded in an unfamiliar city, build life skills and affords them the stability they need at home to concentrate on building their baseball skills.

Host families are asked to provide meals for their player and need to provide a room with access to a laundry room and kitchen. Families can host one or more players and will be paid $150 for each player housed. Each family will also receive a family pass to games this season.

The Lakers have their first home game at 7:05 p.m. June 3 at Hayek Field.

Roberts said he can’t wait to showcase the team to the community. The newly-created team will play in the Pioneer Collegiate Baseball League.

Host family forms are available at Tiger City Sports or by calling Tom Jones at 402-3265.