Lucas Selch
For Bruce Leisten (11), football has become more than a game, it has turned into a second home, a test of discipline and a key to his future.
Leisten admitted that at first football was not something he took too seriously.
“I just thought of kicking at the beginning of my sophomore year,” Leisten said. “Once I really got introduced to the environment after summer training, it started to feel like family to me, and that is when I began to take it seriously.”
Since then Bruce’s confidence has grown, along with his achievements. One of his proudest moments came in a recent practice where he kicked a 50 yarder. In games his favorite memories are when he delivers crucial onside kicks
“Whenever I recover the ball in a moment we really need it back, that is when I feel the most proud,” Leisten said.
Football has also shaped Leisten beyond athletics. It has taught him how to stay calm and consistent.
“I really have to keep my temper,” he explained. “If I am not performing well in the classroom then I am not going to have the discipline to perform well on the football field. So I try to keep the same mentality in every aspect of my life.”
Balancing two sports makes Leisten’s journey even tougher. Leisten also plays soccer, and some days trains for as many as eight hours.
“Some days of training can get really hard,” he admitted. “I have definitely thought about quitting, but at the end of the day I know it is worth it and the best thing for my future so I push through.”
For Leisten football is more than a sport. It is a test of character, a support system, and a vision of what lies ahead. As Leisten continues to kick his way into bigger moments, his dedication both on and off the field shows no signs of slowing down.