The 18-year-old utility is set to play his part in the Swans' first semi-final against Belconnen this weekend. The Canberra-based Belconnen finished the regular season on top of the ACTAFL ladder with the Swans in second.
"They've beaten us a couple of times this year. They're pretty hard at the footy and they like a good solid contest," Bruce said.
The winner goes through to the grand final and the loser plays the winner of the second semi-final between Eastlake (Bruce's former club) and Ainslie.
Reserves coach Brett Allison also said finishing top two was vital for the club as a whole.
"It's pretty important that we finished in that second position because it means we have another two games minimum to ensure that our players are still playing games as the seniors go into finals in case any of them are required," Allison said.
The 187cm Bruce has played up forward and on the half-back flank this year and says he's just happy to do whatever job is needed for the team.
And he has the perfect role model in his mentor, Craig Bolton.
"He's always on to me about my consistency and I suppose at the Swans we're not known for our flashy players," Bruce said.
"I'm not a real flashy sort of player and do the team thing. I think my tackling and pressure on the opposition is one of my strengths.
"And I relish the contested situations and beating my opponent one-on-one. And I quite relish getting the hard ball gets."
The Swans reserves are only allowed 13 of the club's players on the field at one time with five "top-ups" from the local leagues making up the numbers. That figure rises to six top ups during the finals series.
"It does make it difficult when they don't know our game plan and you meet them two hours before the game. It's tough remembering their names," said Bruce.
"But if we lose a game we can't blame them, there are more of us on the field than them. It's down to us and they (the top-ups) try their hardest for sure. "
Bruce recorded a 14.1 beep test at NAB AFL state screening session last year as well as a running vertical jump of 92cm.
He represented NSW/ACT at U18 level in 2007 and impressive form for Eastlake against the Swans reserves last season alerted the club to his potential.
Aside from his obvious natural athleticism, this season has been about developing the consistency needed in senior footy. "It's been a good learning curve in terms of developing your skills at a higher level of footy.
"I guess my consistency across the board is one main area that's improved since I arrived this season. And to maintain that level is one of the biggest things you have to learn when you come into the system.”
Allison has seen a number of his charges get their shot at senior footy this season. Craig Bird, Ryan Brabazon, Matthew O'Dwyer, Nick Smith, Patrick Veszpremi and Jesse White all made their debuts in 2008.
Bruce is contracted till the end of this year. It's unclear if he'll remain on the rookie list, be elevated to the senior list or be released. "I really don't mind. I'd just love to be here for another year," he said.
So, when does Bruce think he'll get a chance in the seniors? "That's the million dollar question," he said.
"You just got to keep putting in consistent performances and keep putting your hand up."
As for the senior list, Bruce rejects the gloomy talk that's been leveled at them.
"I definitely don't believe all the talk of an end of era and everyone being past it. It's not true."
