Eric Worley, a member on PYB’s founding committee, shared with PYB a little bit about himself, his rich basketball roots, and his strong involvement and feelings regarding PYB.
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Eric attended Central High School and is a graduate of West Chester University and Gwynedd-Mercy College. A member on the WCU men’s basketball team, Eric had a standout career from ’93-’98 and is part of the university’s athletic hall of fame.
Upon graduation, Eric worked in the education field for over 15 years, most recently serving as Principal at a Philadelphia charter school. In August 2007, after several years of volunteer coaching basketball within the Philadelphia area, Eric, alongside owners, Shawn Gee, and Carnell Groomes, created Triple Threat Foundation. Currently serving as the Executive Director, the non-profit organization is committed to developing youth in and around the Philadelphia area in three distinct areas: Education, Athletics, and Life.
In addition to his current position, Eric has acquired the important role of PYB’s Program Director. A perfect fit, Eric has developed and established great relationships with coaches, players, and parents in and around the Philly area. As Program Director, Eric is responsible for recruiting participating schools, hiring the dynamic staff, and structuring the overall programs. PYB is actively in its second session of their Middle School Partnership Program and looks forward to the “City 6” Series that will be offered this summer.
A pivotal part of Philadelphia Youth Basketball’s founding committee, Eric is passionate about its mission of creating opportunities for Philadelphia’s under-resources young people. He is motivated particularly by PYB’s vision of building a state-of-the-art all-encompassing facility, as he believes it will provide student-athletes with a place to call their own. Eric says basketball has played a large role in his life and believes in its transformative ability to also impact the lives of Philadelphia’s young people.
Fun Facts about Eric: In Eric’s free time, he enjoys spending time with his family and friends and attending sporting events. Eric’s daughter, Dee, is finishing her playing career as a student-athlete at Hofstra, and Cire, his younger daughter, is a 5th grade student who loves basketball and is a valuable PYB volunteer.