Interview: Dynamic Olathe North Playmaker Arland Bruce IV is Set on Championship Run

Written by Charlie Beuttel

Twitter: @charlie_cds3

Olathe North (KS) had a fantastic season in 2018 as the Eagles finished 9-3 and reached the 6A state semifinals where they suffered a heartbreaking loss to Blue Valley North (51-49). In 2019, expectations are just as high because the majority of the team is returning. The star on the field for the Eagles is junior athlete Arland Bruce IV.

Bruce had a monster sophomore campaign where he spent time at quarterback and running back throwing for 1,209 yards and 16 touchdowns while rushing for 1,379 yards and 19 more scores. The 5’11”, 187-pound, playmaker has his eyes on having an even better 2019 where he can make big plays with his strong arm and tremendous footwork taking Olathe North to the next level in the playoffs.

The Class of 2021 prospect already has one college offer and has interest from several local schools including Kansas and Missouri.

Not only does Bruce work hard on the field but also in the classroom where he has a 3.4 GPA and math is his favorite subject.

In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview I sat down with Arland to discuss his career at Olathe North and his recruiting process.

Interview

Arland, what are your thoughts on the 2018 season?

“Our 2018 season was pretty successful as we were just two points short in the semi-final game. We are looking to go that extra step this year.”

What are your thoughts on your individual performance last year?

“I feel my overall performance last year was decent. I’ve been working hard all summer to take my game to the next level. I am always looking to improve.”

What was the most memorable moment of your sophomore season?

“My most memorable moment last year would be running on to the field against Blue Valley North with the stands jam-packed.”

Did you earn any individual honors in 2018?

“Individual honors I received were Sports in Kansas Non-Senior Football first-team athlete and 810 Varsity second-team QB.”

Do you have any college offers?

“I have received an offer from Garden City Community College.”

Are there any other schools showing you interest?

“Other schools showing interest are Iowa State, Kansas State, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Tulsa, and Northwest Missouri State.”

Have you been attended any college camps this summer?

“I attended three college camps this summer. Those were Iowa State, Kansas State, and Missouri.”

Have you been on any college visits?

“I have visited Northwest Missouri State University.”

What are your strengths on the football field?

“My strengths on the football field are moving laterally and making quick moves to get in the open field.”

What is your fastest 40-yard dash time?

“My fastest 40 time is a 4.55.”

What is your GPA?

“My GPA is a 3.4.”

What is your favorite subject in school?

“My favorite school subject is Math.”

Do you play any other sports in high school?

“I also play basketball and baseball.”

Which current NFL player do you compare yourself and why?

“I would say Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens) because of the way our offense is set up around a scrambling-mobile QB who can run the read-option along with many different route concepts.”

What are your team and individual goals for your junior season in 2019?

“My team goal for this season is to go a step further than last year and play on Thanksgiving weekend down in Emporia. “

What game on the schedule are you most looking forward to playing?

“A game I’m looking forward to on our schedule is our Week 1 opponent – Olathe East. The next game in front of me is always my main focus and who I’m ready for.”

Thank you for your time and good luck this season.

“Thank you, sir.”

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Photo credit: The Kansas City Star; Olathe North quarterback Arland Bruce IV runs through the Shawnee Mission East defense