Oneata Schwalger is a powerhouse in the world of sport, a former dual-code international athlete who has proudly represented both Australia and Samoa in Rugby Union and Rugby League. Known for her unmatched versatility and fierce dedication on the field, Oneata has seamlessly transitioned into a high-performance coach and mentor, building a career defined by resilience, purpose, and impact.

With over 25 years of experience in sport and life coaching, her passion extends far beyond technical drills. Through her coaching brand, Schwalger Performance, she works with athletes from age 6 to elite level across Australia internationally focusing on holistic development, leadership, and long-term sustainability. She delivers high performance programs to grassroots athletes, representative squads, and even donates her time and expertise to Pacific Island communities, with a vision to expand this model across other nations.

Distinguished by her signature lion’s mane and iconic red tights, Oneata’s image is more than symbolic, it represents fearless individuality, commanding presence, and an unshakable spirit. Her bold, unapologetic identity has become a visual trademark in the sports world, a reminder that greatness comes from owning who you are, both on and off the field.

Having walked the path of elite competition herself, Oneata intimately understands the mental, emotional, and physical demands of high level sport. She draws from her own journey, from World Cups to national leadership roles, to prepare the next generation for success far beyond the scoreboard. Her athletes don’t just learn to perform, they learn to lead, brand themselves, and build sustainable futures beyond the game.

In 2025, Oneata will serve as coach for the Wanderers U18 Women’s Rugby League international tour in Europe and contribute to Nigeria Rugby League’s World Cup qualifiers in Canada. She continues to embed herself in professional systems including Manu Samoa (Pacific Nations Cup), Super Rugby, Major League Rugby (MLR), NRL and Women’s Elite Rugby (WER) investing in her growth to step fully into global coaching leadership.

From Porirua, to Auckland then across the ditch to Perth, Melbourne and now Sydney and across every jersey worn and athlete mentored, Oneata has remained steadfast in her mission: to elevate athletes, create new professional pathways for coaches (especially Pasifika women), and build a brand that empowers others to win in life, not just in sport.

Oneata Schwalger is more than a coach, she is a movement. A mentor. A model of what happens when strength meets vision, and identity becomes impact.

1-1 MENTORING

Delivers personalised guidance to elevate mindset, discipline, and performance.