Bruce's rugby league career was interrupted by WWII and he would play sporadically for the Armed Services between 1944 and 1946. In 1947 Bruce signed with Canterbury and was chosen for NSW but pulled out of the team due to injury.
- Status: Pending1949 to 1950Captain of Canterbury
Beginnings
Bruce attended Sydney Boys high graduating in 1942. He joined Canterbury in 1947 as a halfback (originally from Easts ‘Roosters' juniors) and would demonstrate his skill as a handy goal kicker. He was selected to play in First Grade and after several games represented Sydney Firsts v Country Firsts as a halfback and was then chosen for NSW v QLD in 1948.
Achievements
In 1948 Bruce became the first Canterbury player to be selected to represent Australia on a Kangaroo Tour. Hopkins' nippiness and sharp passing clinched the City Firsts halfback position and his two matches for NSW were a prelude to eventual selection. He went on to play in 13 minor matches on tour.
Post Representation
In 1954 he would retire and he relocated to the country and start a Real Estate Agency and Property Management business.