Steve Barker’s recent departure from Stellenbosch FC, after a
transformative eight-and-a-half-year tenure, marks the end of a rare era of
stability in the dugout. In a league often defined by managerial turnover,
his exit highlights the exceptional commitment required to build a lasting
legacy.
Here, we look at the top five longest-serving head coaches at a single club
in the PSL era—a list showcasing the profound impact of patience and vision.
5. Pitso Mosimane
Club: SuperSport United
Tenure: 6 years (July 2001 – June 2007)
Legacy: “Jingles” laid a formidable foundation at Matsatsantsa, turning them
into consistent title contenders and securing several cup trophies. Though
the league title eluded him during this period, he built the platform for
the success that followed.
4. Gavin Hunt
Club: SuperSport United
Tenure: 6 years, 5 months (July 2007 – May 2013)
Legacy: Taking over a ready-made side, Hunt exceeded expectations by guiding
SuperSport to an unforgettable three consecutive league titles
(2007/08–2009/10)—his first championships as a coach—and cementing the
club’s dynasty.
3. Gavin Hunt
Club: Bidvest Wits
Tenure: 7 years, 4 months (May 2013 – September 2020)
Legacy: Hunt transformed Wits into a powerhouse, achieving four consecutive
top-three finishes before making history by winning the 2016/17 league
title—the club’s first in 96 years—before the team’s status was sold during
the pandemic.
2. Pitso Mosimane
Club: Mamelodi Sundowns
Tenure: 8 years, 3 months (December 2012 – September 2020)
Legacy: Joining a club in turmoil, Mosimane not only stabilized Sundowns but
propelled them to unprecedented heights. His legendary reign yielded five
league titles, the CAF Champions League, the CAF Super Cup, and multiple
domestic cups, reshaping the club as an African giant.
1. Steve Barker
Club: Stellenbosch FC
Tenure: 8 years, 5 months (July 2017 – December 2025)
Legacy: Beginning as assistant coach, Barker officially took the helm in
2017 and engineered the club’s promotion to the top flight. He built a
competitive, identity-driven team, leading them to their first major trophy
(Carling Knockout), consecutive MTN8 finals, and a historic CAF
Confederation Cup semi-final run.
These tenures remind us that in football, time isn’t just a metric—it’s the
foundation for building something enduring. In an era of instant demands,
their stories stand as testament to what can be achieved with trust, vision,
and unwavering commitment.
