Sydney University coach Chris Malone will join the Waratahs as an assistant coach in 2016, leaving the club he captained (2001) and coached (2013) to premiership success.

Whilst the 37 year old admitted he was disappointed to be leaving the Students, he said the opportunity was far too good to turn down.

“Obviously, it’s what I’ve always wanted to do since I got back to Australia and began coaching at Sydney Uni,” Malone told Rugby News.

“As a boy from Country NSW, it’s a real thrill to join the Waratahs.”

Following the departure of Michael Cheika and a host of big name Waratahs at the end of 2015, Malone and new head coach Daryl Gibson will inherit a somewhat new look NSW squad next year.

“I’ll add some fresh eyes and some fresh ideas. With Cheik moving on and Daryl taking over, he’s going to want to coach the team the way he wants to,” he said.

“Daryl wants me to come in and add value, particularly around the backs and their kicking skills, so I think I can do that. “

Malone will join the Waratahs on the back of a period of unprecedented success, but with the likes of Jack Dempsey and Jim Stewart set to join the Tahs full time squad next year, he’s confident NSW will remain a Super Rugby threat.

“Everyone is going to ask that question – Is it a good time to come on board?”

“It’s a strong state with some really good talent coming through, so there is no reason why we can’t continue to be successful,” Malone added.

That success could prove vital for Malone, as he continues to rise in the Australian coaching ranks. However for now, he’s happy to work below Gibson and continue to learn as a coach.

“Daryl has served his apprenticeship; he’s been an assistant coach for seven years now. He’s always been a good thinker of the game and I’ve got no doubt he’ll do really well as a head coach,” Malone said.

“For now, I’m happy to really delve into coaching. I’m looking forward to being able to sink myself into the real nitty gritty of back play and see how I can add value to the team.”

But before he joins the Waratahs, Malone still has a chance to claim a third Shute Shield title with Sydney Uni.

Despite being far from their best for most of 2015, the Students seem to be building momentum towards the finals.

Throw in the opportunity to send Malone off with a premiership and suddenly the Students seem a real premiership threat.