Jordan Henningsen | Contributing Writer

T.J. Bruch, a senior defensive end from Arcadia, IA, brings leadership and experience to the Buena Vista University (BVU) football team as Bruch comes into the season after having a breakout year last season as a junior earning Second Team All-IIAC honors.

Bruch decided to come to BVU because it was relatively close to home, because of his interest in the athletic training and human performance programs, and because he would be able to pursue a collegiate football career. As a senior and team captain for the Beavers, Bruch has very high expectations for the team this season.

“The main goal for our team is like all the other teams in the conference; we want a conference championship. We have to take it one game at a time, but that is the ultimate goal,” Bruch said.

Head Coach Jay Anderson states that not only does Bruch contribute to the team’s success in the game but is an example for his teammates off the field as well.

“T.J. is a great leader who is well respected by his teammates. He has a tremendous work ethic not only on the field but in our off-season program as well. His biggest strength is that he plays hard every play. He battles every snap in the defensive line, many times facing a team’s best offensive tackle,” Anderson said.

Along with high expectations for the team, Bruch has set standards for himself, too. His personal goals for the season are to do all of the little things right and be a good role model for his younger teammates.

Despite Bruch’s personal success on the field, he says that his favorite part about his experience with the BVU football team is the people he has met and the great friendships he has made. He hopes he is able to lead by example for the underclassmen.

The Beavers are set to host Concordia-Moorhead this Saturday, Sept. 14, in their home debut with kickoff scheduled for 1:00 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Steven Phelps