Arland Bruce: talented and misunderstood

Als’ Arland Bruce

Wide-receiver Arland Bruce is a 12-year CFL veteran, but he says he is often misunderstood.

After winning two Grey Cup championships the 35-year-old says he feels like a kid in a candy store -- even if he is playing for the Alouettes.

"It has never been one of my favourite teams but they won more than I can say I won against them. If you can't beat 'em, join 'em," he said, somewhat sarcastically.

Bruce can best be described as quirky and controversial.

"I plan to be a G.M. some day. I relate to the players, but I don't think they understand my story. Hopefully I'll be one of those guys who they use as someone who has been through some trials and tribulations and maintains a high level of play.," said Bruce.

New Alouettes Head Coach Dan Hawkins says Bruce is something of a kindred spirit.

"People would say I'm a bit of a character," said Hawkins. "He likes to have fun with it and as long as he's not disrespecting anyone, football is supposed to be fun. We'll see how it goes. I've grown up a little bit over the years and I'm guessing he has too."

One thing nobody has ever questioned is Bruce's talent. In 2011 he became the 14th receiver in CFL history to record over 10-thousand yards receiving.

But that skill hasn't stopped Bruce from being traded around the league.

Having already played for the Blue Bombers, the Argonauts, the Tiger-Cats, and the Lions, Bruce jokes that he could play for every team in the league.

"I still have four teams to go!" said Bruce. "I know it's business. Things [trades] happen."

"I am just trying to make the team and help them get better."

Above all, Bruce knows that the point of the game is to make the fans happy.

"This is pro sports. We get paid to entertain and as a receiver we're paid to entertain. I would pay for a ticket to see me play." he quipped.