In the professional era, having a back-up career in place when the boots wear thin is somewhat of a rarity. We speak to Doctor Francois van Schouwenburg, who has achieved the ideal.

With the influx of talented young blood dominating the professional game at present, many players have found themselves being shelved post-30, or forced to play out their professional careers overseas.

"I fortunately don't have that problem, now that I'm getting on," Bulls lock Francois van Schouwenburg told this website.

"A lot of players start to worry about what to do after their rugby careers, especially when they get to my age.

"I am fortunate to have a career to fall back on, and plan to focus more on my studies over the next few years."

The 29-year-old tight forward has recently re-joined his beloved Blue Bulls, after a stint playing for resurgent French Top 14 side Toulon.

Van Schouwenburg, who is busy completing his community service after several years qualifying as a medical doctor, admits trying to juggle the two careers requires flexibility, which his union kindly affords him.

"I work long hours and sometimes miss the odd video or field session [with the Blue Bulls].

"But the guys at the Bulls understand my commitments. They are lacking depth at lock so are prepared to be flexible with me," he added.

Van Schouwenburg likened his predicament to World Cup prop forward Jannie du Plessis — another qualified doctor who shares an equal passion for the sweat and toil of the rugby pitch.

"I'm in the same boat as Jannie [du Plessis] — although he is a couple years younger than me.

"That is why at the age of 29 I want to shift my focus. Playing rugby now is just an added bonus for me."

The Blue Bulls number five ran out for his province last Saturday for their fifth round Currie Cup clash against Boland, putting on a solid performance in the absence of World Cup stalwart Danie Rossouw.

"Playing in the starting XV last weekend was a real treat. I'm really grateful for the opportunity I have to play for the Blue Bulls.

"I love my rugby so any game time I get is just a bonus," Van Schouwenburg added.

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