Developing coaching expertise is a critical focus for Samoa’s High Performance Program. 

The Samoan rugby regards coaches as integral to the long-term development of the players to the elite, international level.  In essence, the player’s success is under-pinned by knowledgeable, experienced and educated coaches at each stage of development. 

The professional development of national coaches is supported by the Elite Coach Development program. 

The Elite Coach Development program offers IRB accreditation (up to Level 4), regular coaching clinics, professional development programs, and various opportunities for off-field development. 

Supporting the Licenced Training Centre (LTC), coaching clinics concentrate on a range of topics such as sports science, sports medicine, nutrition, biomechanics, physiology, as well as technical coaching. 

Professional development covers communication, counseling, ethics, physiology, biomechanics, training methodology and more. While off-field opportunities include psychology, training, media skills and working with leading international coaches. 

To participate in the Elite Coach Development program, coaches must have at least 3 years practical experience, and a recognised coaching certificate or IRB Level 2 accreditation. 

The ultimate objective of the Elite Coach Development program is to provide a cohesive coaching structure that services the High Performance Program and the broader Samoan rugby community across all national and age grade levels.