CLYDE RATHBONE grew up in Durban dreaming of his chance to play for the Springboks.
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But after forging a career as a Wallabies winger, the ACT Brumbies veteran believes more South Africans are poised to follow the same path on a new Jake White Scholarship at the University of Canberra.
Rathbone, Brumbies coach White and University of Canberra vice-chancellor Stephen Parker announced the new program in South African rugby heartland on Saturday morning.
The scholarship is aimed at recruiting rising South African rugby stars to the capital to further their careers and academic prospects.
More than a decade after Rathbone made the move, he has no doubt White's presence in Canberra will attract aspiring Springboks to Australia.
''I think it's great, you've got to chase talent where you can find it,'' Rathbone said.
''There are opportunities for guys from South Africa to develop more than just their rugby, it might be coaching or administration.
''It's an exciting opportunity for someone in South Africa who might not be afforded that chance in other circumstances.''
The University of Canberra initiative is aimed at rugby players. Students can get a full-time university degree, funding for relocation and up to $5000 subsidised accommodation for each year of the three-year degree.
It is the next step in the university's aim of becoming the leading sporting tertiary education facility. The Brumbies will relocate to the Bruce campus later this year with plans finalised for a $15 million sports hub.
''We'll think there will be a lot of students in South Africa who will want to study with us and rugby is a great way to promote the university here,'' Parker said.
''It's about building our reputation and connection with rugby as well. We need to start diversifying [in recruiting international students] and South Africa presents that chance.''
White believes the program can benefit Australian rugby by developing future Wallabies. But players are also free to return to chase their Springbok aspirations.
''There's no guarantee that because a boy comes over that he will only play for Australia … this creates another opportunity.''