KNYSNA NEWS - For more than two decades, Sport at Backward Point has brought schoolchildren and adults together through sporting festivals, growing from an ambitious initiative into a well-established programme attracting thousands of visitors to Greater Knysna.
In 2026 alone, almost 9 500 visitors have been attracted to the area through its activities, and local businesses report repeat visitors and increased spending beyond the festivals.
Now, founder and soon-to-retire CEO Keith Cretchley is handing over the reins to Knysna sportsman, educator and coach David Pryke.
Since its establishment in 1994, Cretchley says the organisation's mission has been to provide meaningful sporting opportunities for children from all communities and ability levels. Early efforts included clearing bushes, building pitches and developing facilities in Rheenendal for weekly fixtures and festivals.
Cretchley, a long-time philanthropist, has also ensured that development and community support remain central to the organisation.
Pryke, a qualified schoolmaster, provincial sports coach and horticulturist, said he wanted to uphold the legacy Cretchley created. "Many people are not aware of the significant number of sporting teams that are attracted to Knysna through our numerous sporting festivals and tour groups that frequent the area," he said.
The organisation is now preparing for its 100 Cricket Series, expected to attract more than 3 800 visitors. The organisers estimate direct participant spending, excluding tournament fees, at about R5.5m.
The Greater Knysna Business Chamber's chairperson, Beverley Pothier, and economic development manager Lungiswa Goya have welcomed the event for its potential benefits to youth development, tourism and local businesses.
Pryke said the series also provides free sporting opportunities to many disadvantaged youngsters, while bringing families from Cape Town, Gqeberha and elsewhere to Greater Knysna.
The changing of the guard marks a new chapter for Sport at Backward Point, and its organisers are confident that its sporting and economic legacy will continue.
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