The new Stellenbosch Football Club’s first team head coach Gavin Hunt will face Sekhukhune United as his first assignment of Betway Premiership, on 20 January 2026 at New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane.
The appointment of the 61-year-old comes after the departure of Steve Barker, who departed earlier this month.
Barker stepped down from his position as head coach in order to take up a new role abroad with Tanzanian Premier League side Simba SC.
Coming in as an expert in strategy, the 61-year-old is not a stranger to South African football history, boasting four Premiership titles, two Nedbank Cups, an MTN8 trophy, and a Telkom Knockout triumph, as well as six PSL Coach of the Season accolades.
“I am honoured to be joining Stellenbosch FC at this exciting time.
“This is a forward-thinking Club with a clear vision, and from my first conversations with the CEO and staff, I could sense the ambition and the support structures that are in place. This is crucial for any coach who wants to succeed.
“Stellenbosch have built something special in recent years, and I am motivated to build on that foundation. There’s plenty of work ahead of us, but I am energised by the challenge.
“The Winelands deserve success, and I’m committed to giving everything I have to bring silverware and memorable moments to our supporters.”
Hunt has served as the coach for Black Leopards, Moroka Swallows, SuperSport United, Bidvest Wits, Kaizer Chiefs, Chippa United, and, most recently, Durban City with 1000 matches in the Premier Soccer League.
“We are delighted to welcome a coach of Gavin Hunt’s calibre and experience to Stellenbosch and look forward to supporting him as we usher in a new era at the Club.
“We are proud of the quality of local and international candidates that applied for the position and, after conducting a thorough process, our board is confident that we have secured the right Head Coach for Stellenbosch FC.
“A winner by nature, Hunt is the longest-serving coach in the PSL and one of the most decorated coaches in South Africa, and he has a proven track record that aligns to the ambitions of the Club.
“His player-centric approach and intimate knowledge of Western Cape and South African football were also impressive to observe, and make him a natural fit in terms of aligning with the Club’s identity and long-term vision,” Stellenbosch FC CEO Rob Benadie said.
