U.S. Soccer Foundation and Philadelphia World Cup Host Committee partnership brings lasting investment to Erie’s youth and neighborhoods
The City of Erie celebrated the completion of a new soccer mini-pitch at Nate Levy Park during a press conference today. Made possible through the mini-pitch program of the U.S. Soccer Foundation and with the generous support of the Philadelphia World Cup Host Committee, this marks another step toward ensuring every neighborhood has access to quality recreational amenities that promote health, connection, and community pride.
“The best investments we can make for the future of our city are the ones that revolve around our youth and community engagement,” said Mayor Daria S. Devlin. “Having grown up in this neighborhood, I know firsthand the important role neighborhood spaces like Nate Levy Park play in bringing residents together, creating opportunities for our youth, and building stronger, more connected neighborhoods.
“We are grateful to the U.S. Soccer Foundation, the Philadelphia World Cup Host Committee, Erie County, BEST, and all of our local partners for helping make this project possible.”
“This mini-pitch represents more than a new place to play,” said Ed Foster-Simeon, President & CEO of the U.S. Soccer Foundation. “It reflects a shared commitment to ensuring every young person has access to safe, high-quality spaces where they can grow, connect, and thrive. When young people have places like this close to home, they see new possibilities for themselves. In partnership with the City of Erie and the Philadelphia World Cup Host Committee, we have invested in a space that will help youth build confidence, leadership, and connection. It will become a place where young people feel welcome and supported every day.”
“The world just witnessed something extraordinary, and Pennsylvania was at the heart of it,” said Melissa Piccoli, Chief External Affairs Officer, Philadelphia Soccer 2026. “The energy and excitement of FIFA World Cup 2026™ has reverberated across our entire Commonwealth — from Philadelphia to Erie — and opening this mini-pitch at Nate Levy Park is how we make sure that energy lasts long after the final whistle. This pitch is a reminder that the World Cup’s greatest legacy will be felt on pitches like this one, in communities like this one, for generations to come.”
Mayor Devlin was joined by Emerson Bannon Cutri, the Parks, Trails, & Recreation Coordinator for the Erie County Planning Department, Dr. Marcia Farrell, Executive Director of the Bayfront East Side Taskforce, as well as community partners and neighbors.
“This is a great opportunity to bring World Cup investment into Erie, especially to an area that needs more recreational amenities,” said Emerson Bannon Cutri, Parks, Trails, & Recreation Coordinator, Erie County Planning Department. “This won’t just be for soccer, it can also be used for tennis, pickleball, Baseball5, or whatever the neighborhood chooses. I really hope we can get more of these modern multi-use courts in more communities throughout Erie County.”
“We are thrilled at this type of investment in the Historic East Bayfront and are deeply appreciative to the city, the county, and the U.S. Soccer Foundation,” said Dr. Marcia K. Farrell, Executive Director, Bayfront East Side Taskforce.
As programming at the mini-pitch develops, the City will continue conversations with residents and community partners to ensure the space reflects the needs and interests of the neighborhood.
Residents and organizations interested in scheduling programming can contact the City’s Parks Department for more information at 814-870-1370.
