STELLENBOSCH FC have turned to one of South African football’s most experienced figures after confirming the appointment of Gavin Hunt as the club’s new men’s First Team head coach.

The Winelands-based side announced the appointment on Tuesday, confirming that Hunt will take charge with immediate effect following the departure of Steve Barker earlier this month.

Hunt returns to top-flight football after a brief spell away from the Premiership. He was most recently in charge of Durban City, where his tenure ended a few weeks ago. Stellenbosch confirmed his arrival via an official club statement released on Tuesday morning.

“Stellenbosch Football Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Gavin Hunt as the Club’s new men’s First Team Head Coach,” read part of the statement.

The appointment brings an end to speculation around Barker’s successor and sees Stellenbosch entrust their next phase to one of the most decorated coaches in South African football.

This is the correct decision

Club CEO Rob Benadie said the club was confident it had made the right decision after a comprehensive recruitment process.

“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,” Benadie said.

“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.”

An impressive résumé

Hunt, who hails from Cape Town, brings vast experience to the role. The 61-year-old has won four Premiership titles, two Nedbank Cups, the MTN8 and the Telkom Knockout, along with six PSL Coach of the Season awards. Earlier this year, he became the first coach to reach 1 000 matches in the Premier Soccer League.

Speaking after his appointment, Hunt said he was eager to begin work at the club.

“I am honoured to be joining Stellenbosch FC at this exciting time,” he said.

“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’s first match in charge is scheduled for 20 January 2026, when Stellenbosch travel to Polokwane to face Sekhukhune United at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in a Betway Premiership fixture. 

The club said further details regarding his technical team and first press conference will be communicated in due course.