17 Sep 2015

Sport: Schwalger says Samoan rugby on the up following changes

11:45 am on 17 September 2015

Former captain Mahonri Schwalger believes the recent upheaval in Samoan rugby have ultimately been worth it, with the Manu Samoa team in a good place on the eve of the World Cup.

The 37 year old captained Manu Samoa at the 2011 tournament but was never selected again after criticising the Samoa Rugby Union and team management for their conduct during the event.

Mahonri Schwalger last played for Samoa at the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Mahonri Schwalger last played for Samoa at the 2011 Rugby World Cup. Photo: AFP

Problems came to a head at the end of last year when players threatened to boycott a test against England unless their concerns were addressed.

The SRU has since undergone significant change: appointing a new CEO, signing an historic agreement with the players and committing to governance, management and financial reform.

Former Manu Samoa captain Mahonri Schwalger taking a scrum session at the Rugby Academy of Samoa.

Former Manu Samoa captain Mahonri Schwalger taking a scrum session at the Rugby Academy of Samoa. Photo: Rugby Academy Samoa

Mahonri Schwalger, who now runs a rugby academy in Samoa, says things are now looking up both on and off the field.

"What happened in the last four years is something good came out of it. The boys are sort of in that right environment and they're enjoying their environment. The management are working really hard and they're willing to do whatever they can [to] provide these guys to prepare them, so it's a good sign and in order for these guys to perform in the best of their ability they've got to make sure that everything runs smoothly. From what I've heard the boys are really happy and things are going well so hopefully they will have a greater tournament this year".

Samoa open their Rugby World Cup campaign against the United States on Monday.

Schwalger says the Manu squad have the x-factor and he's tipping them to make the quarter finals and possibly the semis.