Manu Samoa coach Mahonri Schwalger resigns amid sexual misconduct charges

Former Manu Samoa coach Mahonri Schwalger. Photo / Photosport

Manu Samoa head coach Mahonri Schwalger has stepped down from his position, the country’s federation has confirmed overnight.

Ex-Samoa test hooker Schwalger, 46, had been suspended since September of last year, after being charged with sexual misconduct with a person aged under 16.

As coach, Schwalger led Samoa in six tests, winning four and losing two, having taken over the side following the abrupt exit of Seilala Mapusua after the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.

“Mase [Schwalger] has given everything to our country through the Manu Samoa, and his contributions to the team and our rugby community will always be acknowledged,” Lakapi Samoa president Sailele Malielegaoi said in a statement.

“His leadership has been a key part of our journey,” he added.

Former Scarlets and Sale front-rower Schwalger had been appointed in April. As a player, Schwalger played 40 times for Manu Samoa at test level, as well as two appearances for a Pacific Islanders composite side in 2006.

Schwalger was Manu Samoa’s captain at the 2011 Rugby World Cup, but was dropped from the side a year later after criticising the team’s management.

Within New Zealand, Schwalger had stints for Hawke’s Bay, Wellington, Taranaki, Counties Manukau, the Highlanders, Hurricanes and Chiefs at both provincial and Super Rugby level. Schwalger was part of the Chiefs side that won back-to-back Super Rugby titles in 2012 and 2013, the side’s maiden triumphs, under Dave Rennie.

“The resignation follows a period of suspension granted to Mase following the filing of criminal charges against him in court,” Lakapi Samoa said.

Lakapi Samoa said a search for a new head coach will start with the sport in the country in turmoil. They were forced to withdraw from three tests in November due to severe financial issues.

Experienced Samoa prop Paul Alo-Emile told AFP in November he was unsure whether he would continue to play for the side amid the off-field problems.