Tusi Pisi on the attack for Smaoa. (file image) Photo: PHOTOSPORT
Former Manu Samoan captain Lemalu Tusiata Pisi is the new head coach of the Samoan men's national team.
Lakapi Samoa announced his appointment over the weekend.
Lemalu Pisi, better known as Tusi Pisi in the rugby world, was assistant an coach in last year's international windows, including the Pacific Nations Cup 2024 and the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
A former Manu Samoa player and captain, Pisi boasts an impressive and distinguished playing career with 42 international caps, including three Rugby World Cup appearances.
His first assignment will be to coach Manu Samoa in a one-match Test series against Scotland in Auckland on 18 July, before the 2027 Rugby World Cup qualifier and Pacific Nations Cup series in August.
Lakapi Samoa chief executive officer, Seumanu Douglas Ngau Chun, said that they were pleased to announce Pisi's appointment.
A highly respected figure in international rugby, and a former Manu Samoa player and captain, Pisi boasts an impressive and distinguished playing career with 42 international caps, including three Rugby World Cup appearances.
"We are thrilled to appoint Lemalu as Head Coach for the upcoming four-year cycle," Seumanu Chun said.
"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.
"This appointment also reflects our commitment to continuity, with Lemalu well-positioned to build on the strong foundation established by the previous Head Coach and Management. We are confident in his ability to further enhance the Manu Samoa brand and shape a competitive, resilient, and dynamic team prepared for the challenges ahead."
Pisi said he was honoured to be appointed in the position and is excited about the opportunity.
"I acknowledge the Chairman and Board, CEO and Management for the trust placed in me to lead Manu Samoa. 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."
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.
Pisi made his debut with the Pacific Islanders in 2006 and earned his first cap for Samoa in 2011 against Japan.
He served as co-coach for Manu Samoa during their match against the Barbarians in 2021 and was appointed as backs and 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, in Aichi, Japan since 2021.
Manu Samoa have a Test match against Scotland at Eden Park on July 18, before competing in the Pacific Nations Cup series against Fiji, Japan, Tonga, Canada and USA.
The series will also double as the Oceania qualifier for the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Three teams, apart from Fiji and Japan who have already qualified for the event, will make it to Australia in two years time.
