Simba SC head coach Steve Barker has clinched his third individual accolade at the club after being named the Tanzania Premier League Coach of the Month for May.
The South African-born mentor took over the coaching reins at the Tanzanian giants in December 2025, ending a historic nine-year tenure at Cape Winelands-based outfit Stellenbosch FC.
Barker penned a two-year contract with the Msimbazi-based side, succeeding Bulgarian tactician Dimitar Pantev. Pantev had previously stepped in following the departure of another South African coach, Fadlu Davids, who resigned to rejoin Moroccan giants Raja Club Athletic.
The former Stellies tactician has already tasted success in East Africa, securing his first silverware with the club in April 2026 after a hard-fought victory over arch-rivals Young Africans SC [Yanga] in the Muungano Cup final.
Barker’s men secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory in extra-time, edging Yanga in a Kariakoo Derby to clinch the silverware at Zanzibar’s New Amaan Complex.
STEVE BARKER CONTINUES TO SHINE AT SIMBA SC
Barker has hit the ground running since moving to Dar es Salaam, with May’s recognition marking his third monthly crown. He was previously named the Coach of the Month for February and March, ahead of Simba’s Muungano Cup triumph.
During the month of May, Barker’s charges went on a rampant run, winning five consecutive league fixtures following a thrilling 2-2 draw in the league Kariakoo Derby against Yanga.
The Red Lions currently occupy second spot in the league standings with 61 points, just two points behind Yanga, with only four matches remaining before the curtain falls on the season.
Having won three consecutive Coach of the Month awards, Barker stands a strong chance of being nominated for Coach of the Year in the Tanzanian elite league.
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