Stellenbosch FC have confirmed that head coach Gavin Hunt has signed a contract extension that will keep him at the club for the next two seasons, rewarding him for stabilising the team after a difficult spell. The announcement was made on Tuesday, with the Cape Winelands side backing the experienced coach to continue the rebuild at the club.
Hunt, 61, arrived at Stellenbosch at the end of December after Steve Barker departed to join Tanzanian giants Simba SC. Since taking charge, the veteran coach has helped the team steer clear of relegation danger and restore a measure of stability. Stellenbosch eventually finished ninth in the Betway Premiership, narrowly missing out on qualification for next season’s MTN8 competition.
The extension reflects the club’s confidence in Hunt’s impact since his arrival and his ability to guide the side into a stronger long-term phase. Stellenbosch have been one of the more progressive clubs in South African football in recent seasons, and Hunt said he was excited by the opportunity to contribute to the project.
Speaking to Stellies media, Hunt described the club as “fantastic” and praised its facilities, structure and professionalism. He said the staff had been welcoming and supportive since his arrival, adding that everyone at the club shares a positive outlook for the future.
Hunt also acknowledged the success Stellenbosch enjoyed under the previous coaching setup, saying the team cannot forget what has been achieved before. However, he stressed that the goal is to return the club to a level where it can once again compete consistently at the top end of South African football.
According to Hunt, that will take time and patience. He said the process of rebuilding will not happen overnight, but he believes the club now has a chance to reshape the squad and develop into a stronger competitive force.
The contract extension is a signal that Stellenbosch are prepared to continue that process with Hunt at the helm. His experience and track record in South African football are expected to be key assets as the club looks to build on the foundations laid during the current campaign.
For Hunt, the new deal offers an opportunity to extend his latest project at a club he believes has the right environment to succeed. For Stellenbosch, it represents continuity after a season in which the priority was to secure safety, regroup and begin looking ahead to greater ambitions.
