Bruce
Cumming Arriving with us from Massy in July, 2007, Bruce
played a leading role in the French club's attempt to gain promotion to the Pro
D2. A very good line-out forward, he is a sound receiver of kick-offs and is a
strong and aggressive ball carrier who has played a number of seasons in South
Africa's Currie Cup competition. Bruce first played rugby
at Selborne Primary School, East London, aged 9, but rugby wasn't his only developing
sporting interest, as he also played water polo. As a goalkeeper he represented
Eastern Province Schools, him interested to learn on his arrival in Cornwall that
the game is also played here - there a number of former Pirates who have played
both rugby and water polo for the county. Old Selbornians
was his first rugby club, one that has produced 'Springbok' stars such as Mark
Andrews and Andre Vos, plus a Formula 1 racing champion in Jody Scheckter! Selborne
College is one of the great South African schools, it named after Lord Selborne,
the second Earl of Selborne from Hampshire, England, who served as British High
Commissioner to the Cape (1895-1907) before being appointed British Governor of
Transvaal. Bruce worked as a panel beater in his father
Robin's business, whilst in rugby he progressed to play for Border Bulldogs, making
his debut for them in a Vodacom Cup match in 2000. Appearances in South Africa's
famous Currie Cup competition followed, playing also for Griquas before making
a return to the Border Bulldogs team. Having had trials
for South Africa at U21s level, a later highlight was playing for South African
Central Districts against the Springboks in 2004. Bruce
made his debut for the Cornish Pirates in the 'friendly' against Leicester Tigers
in August, 2007, and throughout his first season was a consistent stand-out performer
in his 25 appearances for the club. | 
