Brumbies centre Ainsley Scrivener follows her in father Nick's footsteps

The 17-year-old centre spent her childhood sitting travelling the country watching her father, Nick Scrivener, order the Wallabies and Brumbies around as an assistant coach.

It was one of the best times of her life despite not understanding rugby whatsoever.

That's why her Brumbies debut meant more than most. Her journey to the Super W stage came full circle when her father presented her Brumbies jersey ahead of their series opener last week.

"It was such a good feeling putting it on and running out of the sheds, it was incredible," Scrivener said.

"It was a really good moment for me and my family, they were really proud of me.

"My dad was quite excited when I started going down the rugby path, it's helped us bond in a way. We play in very similar positions, so it's come full circle there.

"He's such a good mentor, he's one of those people who doesn't get too involved because he doesn't need to. I need to develop in my own way but also have the benefits of him being able to help me out when I need it."

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Scrivener will start on the bench when they clash with the Melbourne Rebels in Ballarat on Saturday, providing cover for centres Sammie Wood and Pesi Palu.

The Brumbies will be bolstered by the return of back-rower Tayla Stanford, who is the only change from their 29-10 win over Rugby WA.

Scrivener is one of five rookies who have retained their position in the match day squad, including fellow 17-year-old Ella Ryan.

The teenage duo play for the Canberra Royals in the ACTRU premiere division and were also part of last year's University of Canberra sevens side.

Scrivener has only played rugby for five years and says she's been leaning on the experience of Louise Burrows and Jane Garraway to help develop her XV's game.

"The more experienced women in the team have been so important to our development, they've been such good mentors to us younger players," Scrivener said.

"We've come in with not too much experience of the game of XV's because there's not really a competition for juniors. It's good to have the older girls there to talk us through everything and be a support system.

"One person who has really put herself into a leadership role is Cookie (Burrows). She's always helping the younger girls. I've also been drawn to Jane, she's such a good role model and leader. If I have any questions I feel comfortable talking to her, so she's been awesome for me."

SUPER W ROUND TWO

Saturday: Melbourne Rebels v ACT Brumbies at Ballarat, 12.15pm.