Soward Resigns as Fetu Samoa Coach ahead of RLWC26

Apia, SAMOA – 22 January 2026 –  Rugby League Samoa is to announce a new Head Coach for the Fetu Samoa following the departure of Jamie Sowie ahead of RLWC2026 in October and November.

Soward, who oversaw the Fetu’s historic qualification for IRL Rugby League World Cup 2026, resigned from the role as he felt a career change and shift in personal priorities would make it difficult to commit to Samoa’s RLWC26 campaign in October and November.

The former St George Illawarra premiership winner and NRLW coach had been in charge of Samoa for three seasons and said he was grateful for the opportunity to coach at international level.

Among the highlights were defeating Tonga and Fiji to qualify for RLWC26 and beating Papua New Guinea to win promotion to the 2025 Pacific Cup against Australia and New Zealand.

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Jamie Soward oversaw Fetu Samoa’s from 20th to fifth in the IRL World Rankings during his three-year tenure as coach. NRL Photos.

Thank you for the opportunity, the trust and the memories,” Soward said in a Rugby League Samoa statement. “I will always be proud of my association with Rugby League Samoa and my association with the Fetu Samoa program.”

RLS president Ponifasio Vasa acknowledged Sowie’s contribution to ensure the teams success going forward.

“While we are sorry to see Sowie go, we respect his decision and understand the importance of doing what’s best for him, his new role and especially his family,” he said.

“One thing that is clear about Sowie, he is very passionate about the game. Once a Fetu, always a Fetu.”

Under Soward, the Fetu rose from 20th in the Women’s IRL World Rankings at the end of 2022 to be currently ranked fifth behind Australia, New Zealand, England and France.