Wisconsin LB Mike Bruner Iowa’s first commit for 2018
IOWA CITY, Iowa – Iowa football coach Kirk Ferentz often talks about having a family atmosphere in his program.
Family is what caused outside linebacker and Mequon, Wis. native Mike Bruner to be the first to pledge his commitment to Iowa’s 2018 recruiting class. He made the announcement on Twitter shortly after visiting Iowa City over the weekend.
"The sense of family I got while talking to the players and coaches is unbeatable," Bruner said. "Iowa has everything I want from a great coaching staff to a great program and a great community.
"I believe I made the right decision."
The 6-foot-3, 215-pound Bruner still is finishing up his junior season at Homestead High School, but he sees his early commitment as an opportunity to build relationships with the people in the Iowa program.
"I feel that since I have committed so early I will be able to build that family-like relationship with the coaching staff for the next year and a half until I report to training camp," Bruner said.
Bruner also sees an opportunity to help spread the word about Iowa to other potential recruits in the 2018 class.
"I want Iowa to be the best it can be," Bruner said. "If I am in contact with other Iowa recruits I will definitely tell them how I view Iowa and how great it is."
Even though Iowa lost to Wisconsin, Bruner enjoyed his experience at Kinnick Stadium on Saturday so much that he wants to get back as soon as possible.
"I thought it was great," Bruner said. "The environment down there is always better than any other school on game day."