A Game-Changer for Columbus? Inside the Vision for EXE Sports™

The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper sat down with Eric Brown, CEO of Wisemen Multimedia LLC, to discuss a proposed mixed-use amateur sports and entertainment complex that could help reshape Columbus into a premier destination for sports tourism and family entertainment. If realized, the development has the potential to position the city as a year-round hub for youth athletics, visitor engagement and sustained economic growth.

Courier: Recently, Wisemen Multimedia announced a proposed development in Columbus. What is EXE Sports™?

Eric Brown: EXE Sports™ is a visionary mixed-use amateur sports and entertainment district designed to bring together athletics, entertainment, hospitality and lifestyle experiences in one destination. While we are still in the early planning stages, the goal is to create a year-round environment that serves athletes, families and visitors alike.

Courier: Why was Columbus, Georgia identified as a potential location for this project?

Brown: Columbus already has a strong foundation as a sports destination. The city consistently attracts tournaments and visitors, and we see an opportunity to build on that momentum. This project is about positioning Columbus as a regional and national hub for sports tourism while enhancing quality of life for residents.

Courier: What would the development include if approved?

Brown: The concept centers around a walkable, mixed-use district. Plans include multi-sport competition fields, a 1.2-mile racetrack, a waterpark, live event venues, gaming experiences and a variety of family-oriented attractions.

In addition, we’re proposing a 440-room hotel with a 30,000-square-foot convention and event center, along with integrated retail and dining throughout the development. Residential components would include two four-story multifamily buildings with approximately 600 units overlooking the river, connected by a central plaza designed as a community gathering space.

Courier: The concept draws comparisons to destinations like The Battery Atlanta and Avalon. How does EXE Sports™ differ?

Brown: Those developments are great examples of how mixed-use environments can create energy and economic impact. What makes EXE Sports™ unique is its focus on amateur athletics combined with immersive entertainment. This is not just a place to visit—it’s a place to compete, stay, play and connect.

Courier: What kind of economic impact could this project have on Columbus?

Brown: If realized, this project would generate jobs, increase tourism and stimulate broader economic growth across the region. More importantly, it would create sustained activity throughout the year—not just during events. That kind of consistency is what helps communities grow long-term.

Courier: How does community engagement factor into the project?

Brown: That’s a critical component. We are committed to workforce development, youth programming and building partnerships within the community. We’re also exploring ways to support soldiers transitioning from nearby Fort Benning through targeted initiatives and engagement opportunities.

Courier: What has been the response from local leadership so far?

Brown: We’ve had encouraging conversations. The Development Authority of Columbus has shown interest, including support through an inducement resolution that could offer incentives if the project moves forward. That’s an important step, but there is still more work to be done.

Courier: What is the projected timeline for the project?

Brown: If everything aligns and approvals are secured, construction could begin as early as late 2026, with phased openings anticipated in 2027. Again, we are still in the early stages, so those timelines are preliminary.

Courier: Is this part of a larger vision beyond Columbus?

Brown: Yes. EXE Sports™ is designed as a scalable concept. Columbus would serve as a flagship site in a broader plan to develop similar complexes across North America. Our vision includes up to 300 locations, but it starts with getting this first one right.

Courier: What should the community understand about the current status of the project?

Brown: It’s important to emphasize that this project is still under consideration. No final agreements have been announced. We’re in the planning and evaluation phase, and we look forward to continuing conversations with city leaders and the community.

Courier: Final thoughts—what excites you most about this opportunity?

Brown: What excites me most is the potential to create something transformational—not just for visitors, but for the people who call Columbus home. This is about building a destination that brings energy, opportunity and long-term impact to the community.