Directors

John Melody

John Melody is a native of Ireland and brings a wealth of youth, collegiate, and professional coaching experience. John first came to the United States to play for Mercyhurst University. He then went on to become the head coach for men and women at Mercyhurst where he had regular success. During his tenure, they won multiple GLIAC titles and NCAA Regional titles with both programs perennially ranked in the top 20 in the nation. He personally won several GLIAC and NCAA Regional coach of the year awards as well as sent many players on to the professional ranks.

John also had a stint as an assistant at Gannon University in 2007 in which the Knights won the GUAC and received an NCAA tournament bid for the first time in 15 years.

John went on to become the head coach of the Erie Commodores men’s team from 2009- 2013 and again in 2016-2017. During his tenure the Commodores have been one of the most successful organizations in the National Premier Soccer League with 6 conference championships, 3 regional championships and multiple invites to the US Open Cup.

Many of John’s players have gone on to sign professional contracts and he is well known for the development of young players to go to the “next level.”

John holds an FA couching license. John is also a well respected business man in Erie where he owns and runs several successful restaurants and pubs. John has a combination of soccer knowledge and business acumen along with his long history of supporting the local Erie community.

TROY BINGHAM B.SC (ACC) M.B.A.

Troy is a highly experienced and accomplished international soccer administrator, coach and player. He has a track record of success in Australia, South Africa and the United States in all aspects of the game.

As an administrator he has been successful as the CEO of Gold Coast United FC, Managing Partner of Maumee Indoor Soccer Centre, Owner of Bond University Junior Soccer Club, Founder of Gold Coast Futsal, Junior Director and Representative Program Director for Football Gold Coast and Commercial Director for Football Coaches Australia.

As a coach he holds an NSCAA National Coaching Diploma and held positions as Gannon University Mens Assistant Coach that went to the Final Four, Head Coach of Iroquois High School that made the state play-offs for the first time, Head Coach of Toledo Celtics FC and Technical Director of Virginia United FC. He has a strong track record in youth development in both the girls and boys game.

As a player he has been a South African under 19 International, an All American, a Collegiate Senior Bowl starter and is inducted into the Gannon University Sports Hall of Fame. He is Gannons second all time points scorer, was drafted by the Wichita Wings and has played in 2 final fours and for numerous professional clubs. Troy was also tournament MVP in the national championship winning Toledo University Club Soccer team which was awarded a proclamation from the City Of Toledo.