Hope FC retain veteran duo Gamildien and Martin for historic Championship debut

Newly promoted Hope FC have secured the futures of veteran players Ruzaigh Gamildien and Craig Martin as they prepare for their first season in South Africa’s professional football ranks.

The Western Cape club will compete in the Motsepe Foundation Championship during the 2026/27 campaign after earning promotion through the demanding ABC Motsepe League National Playoffs in June 2026.

Hope FC’s immediate aim is to build on their progress and establish themselves in the professional game. In the longer term, the club hopes to challenge for promotion to the country’s top division, the Betway Premiership.

Gamildien and Martin were central to the club’s successful promotion campaign, providing leadership and experience to a relatively young squad during a high-pressure season in the third tier. Their contract extensions ensure Hope FC will retain two players who have previously competed at a significantly higher level.

At 37, striker Gamildien remains a key part of the club’s attacking plans. The centre-forward’s experience in important matches and his finishing ability proved valuable during Hope FC’s run to promotion.

Gamildien has previously played for top-flight clubs including Moroka Swallows, Royal AM and Bloemfontein Celtic. His ability to hold the ball up and help develop younger forwards has made him an important figure within the squad.

His combative approach was evident in the ABC Motsepe National Playoffs final against North West University, when he was sent off. Despite that dismissal, Gamildien remains a dangerous presence in the penalty area as Hope FC prepare to face more experienced and physically demanding defences in the second tier.

Hope FC were crowned national champions of the third division after beating North West University 5-3 on penalties. The final had ended 1-1 after regulation time and was played in Mthatha, Eastern Cape.

Martin, 32, will offer the team a different set of qualities. The wing-back combines pace, tactical discipline and versatility developed through extensive experience in the top flight.

His most notable spells came with Cape Town City FC and Soweto club Orlando Pirates. Since joining Hope FC, Martin has added energy on the flank while also bringing greater defensive responsibility to the side.

His capacity to turn defence into attack at speed could prove especially important in the Motsepe Foundation Championship, where matches are expected to feature faster and more physical transitions.

The retention of both players gives Hope FC valuable continuity as they adjust to professional football. Their experience will be expected to support the club’s younger players while helping the newly promoted side cope with the demands of a higher level.

Martin’s return to the Western Cape has previously been the subject of speculation, with the Hope FC player linked to claims about a homecoming. Cape Town City FC boss responded to those claims in a related story.