The reason: the hard-working lock will face the Singleton Greyhounds in his 100th first grade appearance, following in the footsteps of captain-coach Ben Hagan, who achieved the same feat a fortnight ago.

“It’s going to be a very proud moment for me,” Bruns admitted.

“I started [at the Devils] in 1998.

“And, I grew up here, so it means a lot to me.

“I had a few years away [from the club], however I returned in 2008 in the under-18s.

“I’ve played in the top grade ever since.

“To reach this milestone is pretty awesome.

“I love the club – and everyone’s great.

“But, to be honest, I didn’t think I’d get there.

“I also receive Life Membership this season, which is a massive achievement, too.”

Bruns easily rates the Devils’ 2015 grand final victory, over the Scone Thoroughbreds, as the biggest highlight of his career.

“That’s gone down as the longest game in history,” he said.

“It was my eighth year in first grade and I’d lost two premierships before that.

“To come out on top, in that fashion, the feeling [to this day] is ‘indescribable’.

“However, I remember there was a lot of relief.

“I’d hate to think what the Scone players went through.” 

A win at Pirtek Park on Saturday would elevate the Devils into second spot on the BHP Billiton Hunter Valley Group 21 Rugby League ladder – a far cry from last year’s position.

“We went through a tough season in 2016,” Bruns admitted.

“So, it’s good to be going well [this year].

“I think we’ll go close to winning it, too.

“We’re definitely in the mix, however this weekend is crucial.

“Singleton’s really turned its fortunes around under Jye Bailey – they are the ‘dark horse’ in this competition.

“They’re big across the park and never go away.

“We need to beat them with our experience.

“And, we’re starting to get our combinations working well. 

“But, we must put it together sooner rather than later.

“It’s a big match for us.”