Former SuperSport United head coach Gavin Hunt has publicly expressed his strong support for Stellenbosch FC head coach Steve Barker to win this season’s Coach of the Season award — and his reasons are as insightful as they are compelling.
In a recent interview, Hunt praised Barker for his tactical acumen, leadership, and ability to get the best out of his squad, despite the challenges faced by the Cape-based club. Hunt, who is widely regarded as one of the most successful coaches in South African football, pointed out that Barker’s work at Stellenbosch deserves recognition on several fronts.
“Steve has done an incredible job,” said Hunt. “He’s taken a relatively young and developing squad and turned them into a team that competes consistently at a high level. That’s not easy in the PSL, where resources and pressure vary so much between clubs.”
Stellenbosch FC, known for their attractive style of play and commitment to youth development, have surprised many this season by securing solid results against some of the league’s top teams. Barker’s calm demeanor and clear vision have helped the players perform beyond expectations, earning respect from opponents and fans alike.
Hunt also highlighted Barker’s emphasis on building a strong team culture, saying:
“It’s about more than just tactics. Steve has created an environment where players want to improve, where they work hard for each other. That kind of leadership often makes the difference when matches get tight.”
Beyond the technical and motivational aspects, Hunt acknowledged the difficulties Barker has had to overcome, including managing a squad without the big-name stars that other clubs boast. Yet, despite those limitations, Stellenbosch remain competitive week in and week out.
“Winning Coach of the Season isn’t just about trophies,” Hunt explained. “It’s about impact, progress, and how a coach lifts a team. By that measure, Steve Barker stands out this year.”
The endorsement from Hunt, a seasoned veteran of the league, adds significant weight to Barker’s candidacy, especially as the PSL season nears its climax and award voting intensifies.
Barker, known for his humility, has remained focused on the team’s objectives rather than personal accolades, but he surely appreciates the recognition from one of South Africa’s coaching greats.
As the Coach of the Season award race heats up, all eyes will be on whether Steve Barker’s steady stewardship at Stellenbosch will earn him the honor — and with Gavin Hunt’s backing, his chances look stronger than ever.
