Toa Samoa have unveiled their new head coach for the end-of-year Pacific Championships, with current Panthers assistant Ben Gardiner set to take over the role.
After former coach Matt Parish stood down following last year's successful World Cup campaign, which saw them make the final against the Kangaroos, the third-ranked side will now bring the experienced Gardiner into the fold.
The former school teacher has previously spent time working at the Rabbitohs, Tigers, Kiwis and Maori All Stars, but has found a home at Penrith this year as a replacement for Cameron Ciraldo and Andrew Webster.
Gardiner will now work closely with the likes of Jarome Luai and Stephen Crichton, with the upcoming Test matches against Australia and New Zealand scheduled for October.
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Ben Gardiner, Jamie Soward appointed as Samoa head coaches
In a statement released by Samoa Rugby League on Wednesday morning, Gardiner expressed his desire to continue the rise of the Pacific nation in the 13-man code.
"It is a privilege and honour to be entrusted with the role of head coach for Toa Samoa," he said.
"It is a great opportunity to build connection and relationship as we move into a new era for Rugby League Samoa.
"Samoa has a rich rugby league heritage that connects us with culture and high performance, and I am committed to working tirelessly with our talented athletes to prepare them for the Pacific Championships.
"Together, we aim to make Samoa proud on the international stage."
Along with the appointment of Gardiner for the men's side, Dragons legend and current NRLW coach Jamie Soward will take over as Fetu Samoa coach for the end-of-year fixtures.
“It is an extreme honour and privilege to coach Fetu Samoa," he said.
"There is a large number of Polynesian women in the NRLW competition, and it’s exciting to have many of these players represent Samoa. I am also looking forward to embracing the Samoan culture during this journey."
