Five Iron Golf Puts Entertainment First

Contributed

Whether you're just starting out and want to learn the fundamentals of the game, or are a seasoned professional looking to improve your form, the folks and state-of-the-art equipment at 5 Iron Golf are there to help.

When one thinks of a golf simulator, it is easy to envision a small green patch to stand on, some golf clubs, a tee, and a machine to register the speed and accuracy of your swings. Five Iron Golf, or 5i, goes beyond this simple vision to create an entertainment venue that offers so much more to its customers.

Founded in 2017 by Mike Doyle, Nora Dunnan, and Jared Soloman, the company derives their name from a small building and humble beginnings in the Flatiron District on Fifth Avenue in New York City — 'Five' for Fifth Ave. and 'Iron' for Flatiron.

In the company's mission to "make golf for everyone," a heavy emphasis has been placed on increased "access to play, practice, and party, inclusivity to bring out the golfer in everyone and un-fore-gettable experiences."

This leading indoor golf franchise has expanded across 10 major cities in the United States; the first locally was opened in Erie as of Memorial Day, 2024. Two international locations in Singapore and India are also in full swing, with more business openings underway.

In addition to having some of the highest quality technology, including Trackman brand golf simulators and projection equipment, high-speed cameras, and a premium golf experience, Erie 5i owners Chase Rogan and Drew Whiting have a variety of other services to offer.

The pair first met while on vacation with their families several years ago. In 2018, with their respective backgrounds in the golf industry, Rogan and Whiting were able to discuss the early workings of a partnership. In 2021, life returned both of the families to Erie and "the dominoes fell into place," said Rogan.

Once Five Iron began their franchising program this year, the duo found their ideal location in Downtown Erie on State Street, where they reside today.

"We want people to think of us as an entertainment venue, not so much a 'traditional' golf venue," explained Rogan. To drive this idea home, Five Iron Golf has alluded to several upcoming parties for their customers, including a Halloween party just in time for Spooky Season.

Not just for golfers, the atmosphere and amenities at 5 Iron Golf are for everyone – game simulators, food and drink, and entertainment abound for patrons of Erie's latest venture. (Photo: contributed)

There are 21 golf courses within 20 miles of Erie, operating either privately, publicly, or as municipal courses. To further remove the 'traditional' aspect of the game, and stand out from other multisport competitors, Five Iron Golf mixes technology with familiarity in a fun, refreshing way. Between the easy to operate equipment and the assistance of their friendly staff, 5i has something for everyone to enjoy and everyday access to all.

This large, expansive space is decorated with colorful, vibrant murals, a giant video wall, and scads of table games including but not limited to foosball, shuffleboard, and air hockey. The facility also offers a restaurant and bar on-site complete with flat screen televisions so you can eat, drink, and watch your favorite team play their way to victory.

And for the golfers, Five Iron offers a membership structure for their "power users," with access to an exclusive membership lounge in the basement and several other perks.

If you're just getting into golf, are having trouble meeting par, or need some professional tips to improve your game, 5i offers multi-level lessons with highly-trained coaches to aid and assist you. Between the differently-sized blast sensor attachments and Trackman technology, 5i's got you covered in helping you meet your aspirations on the links.

Their simulator equipment is more technically proficient than ever before – measuring and tracking all aspects to improve your game like face angle, club path, attack angle, dynamic loft, club speed, ball speed, carry, spin rate, smash factor, and launch angle.

Five Iron offers additional services like a global league with even greater opportunities and prizes, in-house fitting services, club storage, flexible event spaces and easy bookings, and included usage of their top-of-the-line clubs when you book with them.

If you still wish to utilize the company's stellar simulator equipment but golf isn't your cup of "tee," Five Iron offers a multisport simulator with a variety of additional games, such as slapshot hockey, breakaway soccer, foot golf, bowl-a-rama, disc-go golf, and zombie dodgeball. Kid-friendly options are also available.

Whether you go for the golf simulators, some ping pong, or just to enjoy some delicious food and specialty cocktails while watching the game, you're in for a good time at Five Iron Golf.

For more information on membership, programs, menus, and amenities, visit fiveirongolf.com/locations/erie-downtown