Bruce played football at Handsworth Secondary School in North Vancouver and then went on to UBC, where he played four years from 1981 to 1984. He was selected to the WIFU All-Star team in 1983 and 1984.
Bruce was drafted by the BC Lions 14th overall in the CFL Canadian Draft and played 26 games for the Lions as a defensive back and safety in 1985 and 1986. His pro career was cut short due to an unfortunate hip injury.
Bruce turned to teaching at Dr. Charles Best Secondary School in Coquitlam, where he also began his coaching career. He later returned to his alma mater, Handsworth Secondary, to coach his son, Mitch, and assist long time friend, head coach Jay Prepchuk.
In 2015, Bruce enjoyed seeing his son Mitch earn a Vanier Cup title with the UBC Thunderbirds and celebrate a CFL Draft selection by the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
