NSW Waratahs new recruit Israel Folau has linked with Sydney University Football Club (SUFC) for the 2013 season.
Folau, the former rugby league international who played with the Greater Western Sydney Football Club in the national AFL competition in 2012, switched to rugby union this season and has played two trial matches with the Waratahs.
He approached SUFC and after a meeting with club President David Mortimer, he decided to join the premiership-winning club commencing immediately.
In joining SUFC Folau has made the commitment to provide a scholarship for a young rugby player and student to assist that player to attend the University of Sydney and play rugby with the club. The scholarship will be known as the Israel Folau Scholarship.
Folau also expressed an interest in undertaking study over the next few years.
“During my career I have been fortunate to have been exposed to some terrific support and I am committed to showing faith in a fellow Tongan player and student at Sydney University and help them achieve their individual goals,” Folau said.
“I have been greatly attracted by the professionalism of the Sydney University Football Club, the quality of the people and the opportunities for study and career planning for life after rugby.”
Sydney University Head Coach Chris Malone said he was thrilled to have Folau in his playing roster although he isn’t expecting to see him in the blue and gold hoops any time soon.
“Israel is a supreme athlete and I am sure he will make a huge impact at the Waratahs and then hopefully the Wallabies. Our aim as a club is to see as many players as possible progress to representative rugby. Israel is no different and hopefully we can play a small role,” Malone said.
