Mahonri Schwalger, coach of Samoa, accused in particular of attempted rape of a minor, resigned from his post on Monday. He was named to the bench in March 2024.
Mahonri Schwalger left his post as Samoa coach on Monday. The Federation’s board of directors announced the news after accepting the resignation of the coach who had been suspended from his duties for several months after serious accusations against him. Schwalger was prosecuted in September by Samoan justice for attempted sexual assault, indecent assault, simple assault and attempted rape of a minor under 16 years old.
Trial scheduled for April 28
He was arrested then released on bail in October after a complaint from two members of his family, reported the Samoa Global News newspaper. In a statement released on Monday, the president of the Samoan Rugby Federation (Lakapi Samoa) welcomed Shwalger’s move to the bench. “Mase has given his all to our country through the Samoa selection, and his contributions to the team and our rugby community will always be recognized. His leadership has been a key part of our journey, and we wish him the best,” he said.
He was named coach in March 2024 to succeed Seilala Mapusua a few months after the 2023 World Cup, ending with elimination in the group stage. Under his orders, the team notably won against Italy (33-25) on July 5. She also took third place in the Pacific Nations Cup after her victory against the United States in the classification match. The selection had decided to travel to Europe for the fall tour due to financial problems.
Schwalger, aged 46, has worn the colors of the Welsh club Scarlets but also of several New Zealand franchises of the Highlanders, Hurricanes and Chiefs. He was captain of his team during the 2011 World Cup and had 40 caps. His trial hearing has been set for April 28 and he remains on bail.
Senegal
