Earlier this week Erie News Now broke the story of the student dormitory off Oliver Rd. in Summit Township
being purchased by the current owner of the Erie Bank Sports Park.
While its being used by international students now, Troy's plan is to utilize the space for athletes visiting for camps.
It's on the same property as the sprawling Erie Sports Center, offering youth to semi-pro sporting options and community fun for the whole family.
"Right from the very start the vision for this was that it was going to be a multi sports facility that was learning sport but also family fun and entertainment," said Troy Bingham, owner.
Outdoor entertainment like concerts on the Horseheads Brewing Stage, Go-Karts and mini golf plus, batting cages.
There's even a beach arena to play ball in the sand, along with a Tiki Bar.
But the complex off Oliver Rd. in Summit Township offers even more to the Erie Community and its visitors.
It's all under the direction of owner Troy Bingham, who acquired the center in October of 2021. Troy is a native of South Africa.
He is a former professional, international soccer player who was drafted after his standout seasons at Gannon. Troy even made it into the school's Hall of Fame.
But he's also a businessman, running the center with a team approach.
"We have expert coaches," said Troy. "Not only get the kids to enjoy themselves and play and have fun but we start to teach them the basics of the game, start to develop them."
It's more than just recreational sports. Kids as young as three years old can attend the gym, with the center helping students all the way to the semi-pro level.
"We don't turn anyone away that could not afford to take part and we are really focused on putting on programs that are affordable for our families," said Troy.
Dustin Gray knows that well. His daughter is a member of the Erie Commodore's soccer team housed at the Sports Center.
The Marine Corp Veteran is also the facilities manager, overseeing three spaces.
"We have the dome, the main facility around the dome," said Gray. "We also have the basketball courts in the back that we rent out."
The field under this massive dome is utilized every afternoon of the week until the late evening hours. It's for local athletes to come not only to play baseball and lacrosse, but of course soccer too.
"We want this place to have the atmosphere where you feel you're at a second home," said Gray.
A home where baseball is also one of the nine sports offered, along with wrestling, volleyball, flag football, and the newest launch: pickle ball can all be played at this community gem.
You can even rent out space at the Erie Sports Center for parties. Troy Bingham said there's a major announcement coming in the next few weeks.
The announcement involves a basketball program linked with an NBA franchise.
The former pro soccer player was also once a general manager for a professional basketball franchise. He's also planning a community partnership to bring sports to children in the City of Erie.