Stevie McCarthy-Campbell has left Barry Town United Women to join Gwalia United.
The former Llantwit Major boss presided over just one win from their first five games in the Adran Premier this season.
His departure was announced on Sunday evening, following their 4-1 defeat at home to Briton Ferry Llansawel. But shortly after, it was announced he had joined Gwalia United to take over from James Thomas, who resigned as head coach on Thursday.
On leaving Barry, McCarthy-Campbell said: “I am incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together over the past two seasons.”
”The players have been outstanding with their commitment, attitude, and desire to keep improving, they have made this journey truly special.”
“I’d like to thank the committee for their trust and belief in me, and for giving me the opportunity to lead this great club. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working alongside such a dedicated group of people who care deeply about the club’s future.”
”A special thank you must also go to my staff, whose hard work, loyalty, and support have been invaluable throughout my time here, without them our success wouldn’t have been possible.”
”I look forward to watching the club continue to grow and succeed, particularly with the exciting pathway being built through the new academy. The future is bright for Barry Town United Women, and I’ll always be proud to have played a part in the clubs journey.”
McCarthy-Campbell arrived at Jenner Park during the summer of 2023 - when he was still in charge at Llantwit Major - but he was sacked by the Cymru South club shortly after the season began.
Free to concentrate on the top flight of Welsh women’s football, he led Barry to their biggest points total in his first season in charge, before guiding them to sixth in 2024-25, while improving the squad’s ability to compete with the likes of Cardiff City, Swansea City and Wrexham.
Luke Williams, women’s chairman at Barry Town United, said: “We are extremely grateful for what Stevie has delivered for our women’s section both on and off the pitch during his tenure where he has overseen great progress for the club.”
”During his tenure, the club has made great strides which has resulted in breaking a number of club records during his two years in charge.”
”He is an ambitious and talented manager with an extremely high work ethic, and I have no doubts that he will go on to achieve more great things in the future in whatever comes next for him.”
So far, the 2025-26 season has been tough on Barry, who have lost all three of their home games, conceding 13 goals and scoring just once.
Goalkeeper Molly Arnesen was sent off in their opening 4-0 loss to Swansea City, leading to midfielder Erin Murray stepping inbetween the posts for their gutsy 3-2 defeat at Wrexham - which also saw captain Emily Freeman injured.
Following a 5-0 defeat against Cardiff at home, Barry earned their first win of the season last weekend when they beat Aberystwyth 3-2, thanks to a late goal from sub Keira Harris.
On Sunday, Barry went 4-0 down in the first half - and despite Danielle Broadhurst replying with her first goal of the season, Barry announced the end of the Stevie McCarthy-Campbell era around an hour after the final whistle.
Barry announced McCarthy Campbell was “stepping down to seek a new opportunity” shortly before his appointment was confirmed.
Gwalia United co-owner Julian Jenkins said: “Steve’s appointment reflects the club’s clear and long-term ambition — to identify, nurture, and fast-track Welsh players capable of competing at the highest levels.”
”His role will be pivotal in strengthening our player pathway and in continuing to raise standards on and off the pitch. This appointment underlines our commitment to sustainable growth and to building a team that represents Wales with pride and purpose.”
United, who play in the National League Southern Premier Division, are currently fifth in the table following a 1-0 defeat at home to Real Bedford on Sunday. Their first game under new management will be an away clash at Leeds next Sunday.
Barry are second bottom in the Adran Premier going into next Sunday’s visit to bottom club Pontypridd United, who remain without a win or a point this season.
A spokesperson said: “The club will now begin the recruitment process for Stevie’s successor and an announcement will be made in due course.”
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