Mase Mahonri Schwalger is the new Manu Samoa Head Coach

Apia – SAMOA – 30 March 2024 – Lakapi Samoa has announced the appointment of former Captain Mase Mahonri Schwalger as the new Head Coach of Manu Samoa.

Lakapi Samoa says the decision follows a thorough selection and recruitment process, during which the Board convened to confirm the report and recommendations from the Selection Panel.

Mase has been appointed for a four-year term, starting from 2024 and extending through the conclusion of the 2027 Rugby World Cup an he succeeds the outgoing Manu Samoa Head Coach, Vaovasamanaia Seilala Mapusua.

“It is truly an honor to be appointed as the Head Coach of Manu Samoa,” Mase said. “This role carries a significant responsibility, but I’m thrilled by the chance to contribute to the rich legacy of the blue jersey. Representing one’s country, whether as a coach or player, is the pinnacle of sporting achievement, and I’m deeply humbled by this opportunity. I’m eagerly looking forward to the journey ahead.”

He has notably played 40 Tests for Manu Samoa as a hooker from 2000 to 2011 and captained the team to the RWC2011 and led to controversy after he challenged the Samoa Rugby Union’s handling of finances and players allowances.

After retiring from professional rugby in 2014, he began his coaching journey as a Technical Advisor for Manu Samoa leading up to the Rugby World Cup 2015.

Upon returning to Samoa, he established the Rugby Academy Samoa (RAS) and continued his support for local clubs. His coaching career progressed as he served as Assistant Coach for the Aana Provincial Union team, which clinched victory in the Samoa National Provincial Championship (NPC) 2016. He further honed his skills as Assistant Coach for the Aana Chiefs in 2017-2018, and the Savaii Vikings in 2019 for the Samoa Super Nine Championship.

In 2017, he took the helm as the Head Coach of the Junior Manu Samoa at the World Rugby Junior Championship in Georgia. In 2018 until now, he consistently served as Assistant Coach for Manuma Samoa, and is involved in preparing Manuma Samoa for the upcoming World Rugby Pacific Challenge in April, where Samoa will host Fiji Warriors, Japan XV, and Tonga A. His dedication led to his appointment as Assistant Coach of Manu Samoa in 2020 – 2023.

“We, with Lakapi Samoa have three solid months to assemble our inaugural Manu Samoa squad for 2024. Hosting Italy and Spain in July is an exciting prospect followed by the Pacific Nations Cup. My immediate focus is on assembling a strong management team, and thoroughly select a squad that will keep the pride in the jersey.”