Ben Bruni '15 Recruiting Profile

My name is Ben Bruni and I’m a senior OLB/H-Back at Mt. Lebanon High School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I am a three year starter at linebacker in one of the toughest conferences in the WPIAL. Mt. Lebanon plays at the highest classification (Quad A) in Pennsylvania and I’ve gone against a number of D-1 players (both FBS and FCS) over the last three years. This year I was voted a captain by my teammates and coaches. In 2012 my team was co-champions of the Southeastern Conference and we’re looking to match that again this season. I’ve always been one of the youngest kids in my grade and I have always had to work hard to earn my playing time on any team I played on. I think it has been that experience over the years that helped me get a chance to play as a sophomore. I got noticed by my LB coach while playing on the scout team. After an injury to one of our starting LB’s, I was given the chance to start our second game of the season. We won 17-7 that night as I had 11 tackles including three sacks. I’ve had experience as an outside backer in a 4-4 and a 4-3 set. I played weak side LB as a sophomore and junior and I’m playing strong side this year in our 4-3 defense. In 28 games I’ve recorded over 200 tackles including 9.5 sacks and 28 tackles for loss. This season, I recorded 96 tackles, 3 sacks, 4 forced fumbles and an interception. On offense, we run a high tempo, read option/spread offense. My primary role when I’m on the field is to serve as a blocker, but I’ve also caught three passes in our first six games. I have played on all of our special teams including being the long-snapper on punts this year. I currently have a 3.5 weighted GPA which has steadily improved since my freshman year in high school. Last year I had a 3.44 non-weighted GPA and I’m looking to improve on that this year as I challenge myself with three Honors level classes. Aside from football, I also play baseball and I have served as a “Link Leader” the past two years – mentoring incoming freshmen to help them transition into the high school. I will also be participating on our school’s Model UN Team this year at the conclusion of our football season. I have always loved the game of football – and the feeling I get when I’m on the field. I will not shy away from the physical nature of the game and I will always give you every ounce of my effort whether I’m on the first team or the scout team.