Erie Hits the Big Leagues in US Soccer

WORDS: Jason Oxenbridge PHOTOGRAPHY Supplied

Erie Sports Centre granted access to USL2 and USLW leagues, marking a milestone for the facility and the community

Erie Sports Centre has taken another giant leap towards the 2026 World Cup in the US after it was granted access to the eminent USL2 and USLW soccer leagues.

The United Soccer League announcement comes as Erie Sports Centre owner Troy Bingham gears up for a significant growth year at the Pennsylvania super sports facility he founded in 2021.

“We have invested in building from the ground up each year. In year one, we launched our youth club focused on individual player development and teaching players how to play the game the right way. “In year two, we launched our full-time residential academy to create a full-time training program for young players with potential. This year we’re introducing a pre-professional program to give our players the opportunity to develop at the next level.”Bingham says the ripple effect has profound impacts on players to showcase their skills at the next level and also has social benefits for the local Erie community. Some of those plans include an ambitious goal to move to USL1 and USL Super League—professional teams with licenses for men’s and women’s players.

Joel Nash is the Senior Vice President of Youth & Pre-Professional Properties at the United Soccer League and is excited about Erie’s entry into the leagues. Both Erie teams will play their home matches at Erie, which boasts a 1486 square metre performance facility and its own residential academy. To be granted a licence, Erie first had to meet stringent criteria where facilities, management, and community benefits were assessed.

For Bingham, the game plan is all coming together as the reputation of Erie Sports Centre continues to make its mark. “We are scouting globally through our agents, partner clubs and global soccer relationships,” he says. “We are also investing in growing our soccer and education opportunities, which is attracting
increasing international interest.”

The club’s mission is to provide world-class facilities and development opportunities to athletes vying to reach the professional level, regardless of their background. Providing players for a professional development opportunity with education and pathways to the next level internationally is a solid game plan.

Scan QR to receive more information on attending the Erie Sports Center Villareal Football Academy.