East London’s go-to hub for indoor cricket, netball and community sport, Buffalo Indoor Sports Arena, is growing under the leadership of co-founder Tinus Pretorius. His passion for sports development has transformed the Chiselhurst complex into one of the region’s most vibrant athletic spaces.
Pretorius, born in Burgersdorp and raised across the Karoo and northern provinces, has called East London home since completing his matric in then-Grahamstown (Makhanda).
Despite his full-time career as the financial manager of a major fast-food restaurant group, his lifelong passion for sport drove him to establish the arena.
“My love for cricket started back in 1992 during the World Cup,” Pretorius said. “Indoor cricket has one magical thing, it continues, rain or shine.”
Although indoor sports have long existed in East London, the arena became fully active last year. Competing for a player base was an initial challenge, but East London’s loyal sporting community quickly turned it into a favourite place.
Today, the arena is home to Border Indoor Cricket, boasting 15 Border teams across age groups, including junior and senior women’s sides.
Regular leagues cater to top-level competitive athletes, casual social teams and young beginners.
Junior netball has become a standout attraction. The fast-paced indoor format helps young athletes sharpen their confidence and skills. The arena also hosts competitive darts leagues every Monday, adding to its growing list of offerings.
Pretorius says East London’s warmth has been essential to the venue’s success.
“The community is one of the friendliest in SA. Visitors always comment on the atmosphere and passion we bring to indoor sport.”
The arena doubles as an events venue, hosting birthdays, tournaments, corporate matches and interprovincial indoor cricket competitions.
“They have a place upstairs for a meal, there is a pub, they have music. The vibe is really very good,” a fan said.
Beyond its community-centred approach, the arena remains the only indoor facility in East London offering both cricket and netball. With weather-proof courts and a strong family-friendly focus, it has become a reliable home for sports in all seasons.
One of Pretorius’s highlights has been hosting the SA indoor cricket teams during their coastal tours.
“The talent and energy were unbelievable, but honestly, watching our junior players every week, that’s the real inspiration,” he said.
Pretorius wants to expand competitive participation, especially in indoor netball, and hopes to see more local companies join the arena as sponsors, partners and team participants.
Border Indoor Cricket vice president Zane Scott believes the arena is essential to the sport’s growth regionally.
Scott oversees strategic planning, development and stakeholder engagement, and has been part of the indoor cricket community for several years, joining the Border indoor cricket “brotherhood” three years ago.
He praises the arena’s quality facilities and its commitment to youth development.
“The courts are modern, professionally run and designed to be safe for families and players of all levels,” he said.
Scott is particularly proud of Border’s rising participation at national tournaments.
“In 2022, we had just two senior men’s sides. By 2025, we have seven senior men’s teams, seven junior teams and one senior ladies’ team. That’s exceptional growth.”
Scott credits Pretorius’s leadership for much of this progress. “Tinus is hardworking, dedicated and pays close attention to detail. Under his guidance, the arena continues to grow.”
Scott hopes to expand grassroots participation, strengthen competitive pathways and build stronger partnerships with schools and businesses.
Pretorius encourages young people to make time for what they love.
“Never let being ‘too busy’ stop you from your passion.
“If you truly love something, you will find the time.”
