Mahonri Schwalger has resigned from his position as head coach of the Samoa rugby team, just four months after facing multiple sex offence charges, as confirmed by the Samoa rugby board, Lakapi Samoa. Previously, he had been suspended from his role in September following charges by Samoan authorities, which notably included allegations of sexual conduct with an individual under the age of 16.
In a court appearance in November, Schwalger pleaded not guilty to these allegations. He assumed the coaching role in April and managed to lead the team to a significant win over Italy in July, marking Samoa's first triumph against a tier one nation in a decade. Lakapi Samoa's chairman, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi, expressed gratitude for Schwalger's contributions to Samoa rugby, acknowledging his leadership and impact on the team. Despite these recent events, he conveyed well-wishes for Schwalger's future endeavors. Furthermore, it is noted that Samoa had to withdraw from their scheduled matches in November last year owing to financial difficulties.
5 Comments
ZmeeLove
This is a time for healing and rebuilding. Let's work together to ensure that everyone involved can move forward.
Africa
We should all be hoping for a just resolution to this case, both for the victims and for Schwalger.
Comandante
While the charges are serious, we should wait for the legal process to play out before jumping to conclusions.
Bella Ciao
Schwalger is a predator and should be treated as such.
Muchacha
This is a slap in the face to the victims of sexual abuse. Schwalger should be behind bars, not walking free.