©2018 Saratoga Photographer.com
By Maureen Werther
Sports 4 All is a new sporting goods and memorabilia shop located at 78 Church St. in Saratoga Springs.
Its owner, John Vrana, has been in the business for more than 13 years and plans on growing his business in the region.
Originally from Collingswood, N.J., Vrana is a big in fan of thoroughbred racing and was a frequent vacationer in the Spa City for years before deciding to move here permanently about a year ago. He ran a similar business in New Jersey for more than a dozen years, with an inventory consisting of autographed items such as baseballs, batting helmets and bats, and other items that are favorites with sports fans.
The local store also offers silk-screening and embroidering, sports apparel and equipment.
Vrana said that he also buys, sells and trades sports memorabilia.
But Vrana has no intention of just owning Sports 4 All. He also has plans to open indoor athletic facilities throughout the region, with the first one opening sometime in February off Northway Exit 10.
Vrana purchased a vacant warehouse, which he turned into an indoor soccer facility and batting cages. He did not provide any more specific information about the exact location of the warehouse turned indoor sports venue. He said it will be open to people of all ages and all abilities.
Vrana said he plans to open a total of 10 batting cages and soccer facilities across the state over the course of the next three years. However, he has not determined their locations.
By the time he is done, Vrana said he expects that his combined businesses will create approximately 100 jobs. He also plans to bring in professional wrestlers and members of other sports to his Church Street location to sign autographs and generate additional interest in his store.
Sports 4 All is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week.