From baseball diamonds to bass boats and clay targets, Erie is set to host a packed weekend of major sporting events that will bring hundreds of athletes and spectators to the region.

For the first time in its century long history, the American Legion Pennsylvania Baseball State Tournament will be held in Erie. The event runs from July 26 to 30 at McDowell High School and features eight teams from across the state, including the host team from Millcreek. Tournament play begins with two games each on Saturday and Sunday at 10:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m., with additional matchups scheduled through Wednesday's championship round.

“We’re proud to welcome the PA State Tournament to Erie,” said Mark Jeanneret, executive director of the Erie Sports Commission. “The local organizing committee has done a tremendous job preparing, and we’re honored to support their efforts.”

Also making waves this weekend is the Kings of Bass Tournament, part of the Western PA Team Bass Series and presented by FishUSA. Launching from the West Pier Ramp at Presque Isle State Park, anglers will compete for the best largemouth catches on Saturday and smallmouth bass on Sunday, with lines in the water starting at 6 a.m.

Clay shooting enthusiasts will converge on Critter Path Sporting Clays for the PA State Championship Shoot, which runs Thursday through Sunday. The event includes Five-Stand, 12-Gauge FITASC, Pump and SxS competitions, with a preliminary round on Friday, Supersporting on Saturday, and the 50 Bird event on Sunday. Organizers expect more than 250 participants.

Rounding out the week is the EPIC Volleyball Varsity Team Camp, held from July 22 to 24 at the Erie Sports Center, bringing together high school teams for skill development and preseason preparation.

For more information about these and other events, visit the Erie Sports Commission website.