Tahs’ skipper Dennis considers rehab in US

Shattered captain Dave Dennis is considering a rehabilitation stint in the US to ensure he’s back to the lead the NSW Waratahs for the opening game of the 2015 Super Rugby season.

Dennis admits “it absolutely sucks” having to watch the minor premiers pursue an elusive first Super Rugby crown from the stands after suffering a season-ending knee injury two games before the finals.

But the former Wallabies flanker says a burning desire to captain the Waratahs in their potential quest for back-to-back titles is driving him after undergoing a third knee reconstruction last Tuesday.

“As much as I’m missing out this year, I hope to get to lead the team next year to defend the title,” Dennis told AAP on Wednesday.

“It’s really disappointing, but I spoke to ‘Cheik’ (coach Michael Cheika) and he sees this year as not a one-hit wonder.

“He sees it as long-term, a bit of a revolution for the club, years and years of success and leaving a bit of a legacy.”

Speaking for the first time since going under the knife, Dennis said having recovered from three previous serious injuries would help.

“I know what’s required. I’m still motivated to get back and play,” the 28-year-old said.

“So I’ve got that there; you know it’s a bit of a lonely road for the next six months or so.”

Dennis will also lean on long-time partner, world champion-winning netballer Mo’onia Gerrard, for support.

“The next six months at the Waratahs, after the season’s over, everyone will be off with the NRC (National Rugby Championship) so there won’t be many blokes around,” he said.

“So you need support elsewhere and Mon’s a great support.

“She’s done her ACL and had ankle reconstruction and I think she understands the disappointment of missing out and not being around a team.

“That’s massive and I’m very lucky to have her to help me out.”

Dennis will begin his long rehabilitation after consulting his surgeon next Monday.

“The program we’ve got at the Waratahs, which is called Sparta, is based just outside San Francisco, near Stanford Uni,” he said.

“So there’s a possibility I might go there for a month just to mix it up a bit and try and train and get back to where I need to be.

“I’ll just do whatever I need to get back.”

In the meantime, Dennis plans to be in the background as the Waratahs chase the title.

“I’ll still go in each morning and blokes can ask me questions but the reality is I’m not going to be out there next Saturday when the boys play the semi,” he said.

“If I was out on the field battling away, as much as I’d appreciate advice, I probably wouldn’t want a bloke on crutches telling me how to run a lineout.”

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