Stellenbosch FC appoints veteran Hunt as coach

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Stellenbosch FC have appointed veteran coach Gavin Hunt as their new head coach following the departure of Steve Barker, the Premiership club confirmed on Tuesday.

Hunt, the most experienced coach in South Africa’s top flight, takes charge of the Winelands outfit with an immediate mandate to lift them up the league table after a disappointing start to the campaign that has left them third from bottom.

He will also be tasked with guiding Stellies into the knockout rounds of the CAF Confederation Cup.

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“I am honoured to be joining Stellenbosch FC at this exciting time,” Hunt 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 am committed to giving everything I have to bring silverware and memorable moments to our supporters.”

The 61-year-old brings a wealth of experience, having been in charge of over 1,000 matches across nearly three decades. Hunt has been in charge of a top-flight club every season since 1998, winning four league titles – three with SuperSport United between 2008 and 2010, and one with Bidvest Wits in 2017. He has also lifted cup trophies with Moroka Swallows, SuperSport and Wits.

His extensive coaching résumé includes spells at Seven Stars, Hellenic, Black Leopards, Moroka Swallows, SuperSport United, Bidvest Wits, Chippa United, Kaizer Chiefs and most recently Durban City.

Stellenbosch CEO Rob Benadie said the club was confident Hunt was the right appointment after a thorough recruitment process, describing him as “a winner by nature” whose experience and understanding of Western Cape football align with the club’s long-term vision.

Stellenbosch resume their league campaign away to Sekhukhune United on January 20.

Photo: Darren Stewart/Gallo Images

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Lindiz Vanzilla