Stellies move to tie down Gavin Hunt on long-term deal

The decorated tactician, who has won four league titles during his coaching career, was appointed by Stellies in December last year shortly after long-serving mentor Steve Barker resigned to take up an opportunity with Tanzanian giants Simba SC. 

Hunt arrived with the Cape Winelands outfit struggling near the relegation zone and desperately in need of points, with his appointment viewed as a move to steady the ship, change the mentality and secure the club’s topflight status. 

Having achieved that mandate, Hunt’s short-term contract is now expected to be converted into a longer-term deal. 

It is understood a verbal agreement is already in place for the former SuperSport United and Kaizer Chiefs coach to continue beyond 30 June, with Hunt actively involved in discussions around player movements and recruitment ahead of the 2026/27 season. 

READ: Zwane praises Golden Arrows coach Manqoba Mngqithi

Stellies still have an outside chance of finishing inside the top eight and qualifying for next season’s MTN8 but they will need Durban City to drop points in their final Betway Premiership fixture on Saturday. 

However, speaking after last weekend’s victory over Orbit College, Hunt admitted he felt qualification may already be beyond them as Stellies no longer have their fate in their own hands heading into their final league match away to relegation-threatened Marumo Gallants. 

A top eight finish is nevertheless not believed to have any bearing on Hunt’s future, with the public broadcaster informed that the Stellenbosch hierarchy are fully behind extending his stay and have already begun planning for next season.  

Discussions are understood to include which players may be surplus to requirements and identifying recruits capable of helping Hunt build a more competitive squad for the campaign ahead.