Ieremia quits Samoa job

Ieremia’s decision to step down from the role followed the presentation of a comprehensive review into Samoa’s 2017 campaign.

Ieremia said:  "It is with a very heavy heart that I have decided to stand down as Head Coach of Samoa.

"I took on this role knowing the challenging circumstances and the changing profile and landscape of international rugby for Samoa. Although the goal was to win and build towards the World Cup in Japan, the losses of this campaign have proven too costly for everyone," he added.

"I feel I still have much to give this role so I’m hugely disappointed with this outcome, but as Head Coach, I alone must take full responsibility for our results.  

"I believe my decisionis the best one for our beloved Samoa team.

"I’m immensely proud of the development of this team and I know there is a strong foundation for them to move forward for greater things in the near future.

"It is always tough to get the right quality mix of new and experienced players, but I believe there is now a core nucleus that can move forward from here,"

"I am grateful to the Samoa Rugby Union and the Board for their support of me and our management team.  They have borne a lot of criticism for the results we delivered but I have never doubted their belief in the Samoa," Ieremia said.

The CEO of Samoa Rugby Union Faleomavaega Vincent Fepuleai commended Ieremia's brave decision to step aside.

"This has been a selfless decision from Namulauulu who has worked tirelessly through the challenges of coaching a team with its talent spread around the world, while also trying to develop and grow talent locally.

"However, the most recent performances at the Pacific Nations Cup and the heartbreaking disappointment of not yet qualifying for Rugby World Cup 2019 have forced us to ask ourselves some challenging questions about the best way forward.

"I am grateful to Namulauulu for his hard work, and dedication to the Samoa.  His professionalism, technical coaching skills and ability to build a strong team culture has made a huge difference in our engagement and ability to retain key talent.

"His decision is a testament to his ability to put the team first above his own interests and I commend him for that,"he added.   

The Samoa Rugby Union will immediately begin the process of recruiting for a new Head Coach.