Former Playmaker takes charge of Manu Samoa

Apia, Samoa – 10 April 2025 – Former Manu Samoa playmaker and captain Lemalu Tusiata Pisi, has been named the new Manu Samoa Head Coach.

In making the announcement today, Lakapi Samoa said this exciting new chapter for Samoan rugby follows Lemalu’s recent role as an assistant coach in last year’s international windows, including the Pacific Nations Cup 2024, and the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

He gets into the job running as Manu Samoa is already set to play Scotland on 18 July at Eden Park, New Zealand.

A highly respected figure in international rugby, Lemalu boasts an impressive and distinguished playing career with 42 international caps, including three Rugby World Cup appearances. He played a significant role in numerous victories for Manu Samoa, establishing his leadership on and off the field. His passion, experience, and deep knowledge of the game will continue to inspire the next generation of rugby talent.

Lakapi Samoa Chief Executive Officer, Seumanu Douglas Ngau Chun said Lemalu’s leadership will provide an invaluable insight into the demands of elite rugby and the importance of continuing to foster the team culture, making him the ideal person to lead the Manu Samoa into the future.

“We are thrilled to appoint Lemalu as Head Coach for the upcoming four-year cycle. His extensive experience—both as a coach and former player—along with his deep connection to our Samoan culture, will be pivotal in driving our team forward. It’s always special to see Sons of Samoa return home to lead and take our Manu Samoa forward, and Lemalu embodies that spirit of service and pride. ”

In acknowledging his appointment, Lemalu called for unity and everyone working together for the team’s success.

“I accept this role as Head Coach with humility, knowing that true strength lies not in one person, but in the unity of our people. As the proverb says, ‘the tree and the canoe are bound as one.’ Together, we will carve our legacy with the same grit, faith, and fire that flows in the blood of our ancestors. To our players, supporters, and Sons of Samoa around the world—let us rise as one. Our journey continues.”

BIODATA: Lemalu Tusiata Pisi, Head Coach Manu Samoa
Lemalu Tusiata Pisi has had a distinguished rugby career, transitioning seamlessly from a versatile player to a strategic coach.

Born on June 18, 1982, in Apia, Samoa, he began his rugby journey with North Harbour in New Zealand’s ITM Cup, later playing for Toulon in France and Suntory Sungoliath in Japan. His Super Rugby tenure included stints with the Crusaders and the Hurricanes, highlighting his adaptability across various teams and playing styles.

Internationally, Lemalu debuted with the Pacific Islanders in 2006 and earned his first cap for Samoa in 2011 against Japan. Throughout his playing career, he accumulated 42 caps and scored 245 points for Samoa, participating in three (3) Rugby World Cup tournaments for Samoa.

Transitioning into coaching, Lemalu served as co-coach for Manu Samoa during their match against the Barbarians in 2021. He was appointed as Backs & Skills Coach for Manu Samoa in preparation for the Rugby World Cup 2023. In 2024, he continued his role as Assistant Coach during the July Test Series and the Pacific Nations Cup. He is currently Coaching with Toyota Industries Shuttles Rugby Aichi, Karira, Aichi, Japan since 2021.

Lemalu will begin his role immediately with the focus on the upcoming international fixtures, where Manu Samoa will take on Scotland in Eden Park on the 18th of July, followed by the Pacific Nations Cup 2025. He holds the Lemalu matai title from the village of Lefaga. He is married to Tala and they have a son.