Toa Samoa coach, Mau a Pule Matt Parish has stepped down from his position, after leading Samoa’s national team to a historic Rugby League World Cup final last year.

According to an NRL.com report published Thursday, Mau a Pule decided to exit the position in order to allow a new coach to start preparations for the team’s 2026 Rugby League World Cup campaign.

The Australian, who occupied the position for a decade and was bestowed with the “Mau a Pule” matai title last December during Toa Samoa’s homecoming celebrations, has officially advised the Ruby League Samoa executive of his decision.

Having taken charge of Samoa in 2013, Mr. Parish was the longest-serving international coach at last year’s World Cup and has made a significant contribution to the rise of the Pacific nations, reports NRL.com.

He also had charge of Samoa at the 2013 and 2017 World Cups, as well as the 2014 Four Nations tournament, and oversaw numerous Pacific Test victories. Undoubtedly Mr. Parish’s greatest achievement was last November’s RLWC grand final against Australia.

“It has been an incredible journey filled with triumphs, unforgettable memories and lifelong friendships but I believe it’s the right time to stand aside and give someone else the opportunity to take the lead,” Parish said. “I am extremely grateful and honoured to have been part of this wonderful team and proud of the progress we have made and the positive impact that our players had on all Samoans around the world.

“I also want to express my deepest gratitude to all the dedicated and loyal players and staff that I have been fortunate enough to work with and thank them for their unwavering support and commitment.

“I am forever humbled and thankful to all the faithful Samoans throughout the world who inspired our great team to success and thank you all for allowing me to be a part of this amazing journey.”

Rugby League Samoa’s Executive President, Ponifasio Vasa, paid tribute to Mr. Parish for his long-term commitment and historic achievements, according to the NRL.com report.

“We duly acknowledge the accolades that Mau a Pule Matt Parish has achieved for Toa Samoa as head coach,” Vasa said. “His invaluable service, loyalty, effort, sacrifices and commitment to Toa Samoa has spoken volumes of the systems Matt has instigated and we sincerely thank him for his selfless service to Rugby League Samoa.”

The Australian’s efforts to also raise the profile and development of rugby league for Pacific nations were also acknowledged by Mr. Vasa, who also personally thanked him for his contribution to Samoa and rugby league.

“You played a key and influential role in last year’s historic Rugby League World Cup success where this momentous occasion will be remembered for generations and etched in the history of sports for Samoa," he said . “Mau a Pule, you have been a blessing to Samoa, and we say thank you. 

“You will always remain an integral part of the Toa Samoa family and we look forward to continuing this relationship in developing the game in Samoa.”