Pat McCabe continues to make quality progress 11 weeks after having surgery on his damaged shoulder.

McCabe busted his shoulder during a physical encounter against the United States at the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand. 

Since then he has spent countless hours with Brumbies Athletic Performance Director Dean Benton in an effort to be fit for the majority of the 2012 Super Rugby season.

"It's feeling good, my strength is improving all the time and I feel like I'm getting back to where I want to be," McCabe said.

"It's frustrating having to watch the boys training but it's been a good chance to get stronger and fitter so hopefully I'll hit the ground running once I get back out there.

"Dean has been great for my recovery. I've come a long way since returning to Canberra and although there is plenty of hard work to get through from here I feel like I'm on the right path." 

With a reputation as one of the toughest competitors in world rugby, McCabe's recovery is vitally important for the young Brumbies as they look for guidance from their senior players. 

And although he has just two years of professional rugby under his belt, McCabe's 27 Super Rugby caps and 11 for the Wallabies will prove vital for the youthful backline in 2012.

"After two years of professional rugby and all that experience last year I know the things I have to work on to be a force at this level." McCabe said.

"It's been impressive to see the young guys working so hard. I'm looking forward to getting out there and joining them on the field as soon as possible.

"It's a long season so I just have to be patient and see where we end up."