Lemalu Tusiata Pisi, a well-known figure in Sāmoan rugby and former captain of the Manu team, has been appointed head coach of the national side.

The announcement was made on Friday by Lakapi Sāmoa, the governing body for rugby union in Sāmoa.

Lemalu, better known as Tusi Pisi, succeeds Mahonri Schwalger, who stepped down earlier this year following criminal charges.

He was previously an assistant coach during international tournaments, including last year’s Pacific Nations Cup and the Rugby World Cup in 2023.

Lemalu will step into his new role just in time for the upcoming test match against Scotland, which is scheduled for 18 July at Eden Park.

With 42 international matches and three World Cup appearances, Lemalu is a highly respected figure in the sport.

His leadership and dedication on the field have left a lasting impact, and now, through coaching, he aims to inspire young rugby players in Sāmoa.

He also played a significant role in numerous victories for Manu Sāmoa, 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 Sāmoa stated.

Lemalu Tusiata Pisi's passion, experience, and deep knowledge of the game will continue to inspire the next generation of rugby talent. Photo/file

Seumanu Douglas Ngau Chun, the CEO of Lakapi Sāmoa, is confident in Lemalu’s ability to guide the team.

Seumanu believes Lemalu’s experience and connection will be crucial in shaping the team's future.

“We are thrilled to appoint Lemalu as Head Coach for the upcoming four-year cycle," he says.

"His extensive experience, both as a coach and former player, along with his deep connection to our Sāmoan culture, will be pivotal in driving our team forward.

“It’s always special to see sons of Sāmoa return home to lead and take our Manu Sāmoa forward, and Lemalu embodies that spirit of service and pride.”

In his acceptance speech, Lemalu called for unity and everyone to work together for the team’s success.

Seumanu Douglas Ngau Chun was appointed Lakapi Sāmoa's CEO in December 2024. Photo/Samoa Observer

“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,” he says.

“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 Sāmoa around the world, let us rise as one. Our journey continues.”

Who is Lemalu Tusiata Pisi?

Lemalu has had a distinguished rugby career, transitioning smoothly from being a player to taking on coaching roles.

He was born on 18 June 1982 in Apia and began his rugby career in New Zealand before playing in France and Japan.

He has also played in Super Rugby, including the Crusaders and the Hurricanes. Lemalu first represented the Pacific Islanders in 2006 and earned his first cap for Sāmoa in 2011.

Lemalu Tusiata Pisi takes on the All Blacks during a test match in 2015. Photo/photosport

During his playing career, he accumulated 42 caps and scored 245 points for Sāmoa, taking part in three Rugby World Cups.

After retiring from playing, Lemalu started coaching. He co-coached Manu Sāmoa for a match against the Barbarians in 2021 and served as the backs and skills coach for the team.

In 2024, he continued to assist the team during the July Test Series and the Pacific Nations Cup.

Since 2021, he has also been coaching a rugby team in Japan called the Toyota Industries Shuttles.

With his new role as head coach of Manu Sāmoa, Lemalu will focus on preparing the team for upcoming international matches, including the game against Scotland and the Pacific Nations Cup in 2025.

He holds the title of Lemalu matai from the village of Lefaga.