Next Game
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ARGONAUTS.CA STAFF
TORONTO – The Toronto Argonauts Football Club is saddened to learn of the passing of Grey Cup Champion Al Bruno. He was a member of the Double Blue from 1952 to 1953 and appeared in 21 regular season games and four (4) playoff games, and he was a member of the 1952 Grey Cup Championship team. He passed on Sunday night while in hospital in Port Charlotte, Florida. Al was 87 years old.
Commented Argonauts alumnus and former teammate, Nick Volpe, “Al was a big, dependable receiver, and I don’t ever remember him dropping a pass. He later became a coach who was known to be one of the best around; he understood the game very well. Al had a great way with people. He was always very calm, friendly and efficient. He will be missed.”
Al played one (2) stellar seasons in Toronto from 1952-53 lining up at offensive end. He came out of Kentucky as a highly touted rookie receiver where he was coached by the legendary and hall of fame coach, Paul “Bear” Bryant. Drafted by the NFL’s Philadelphia Eagles, Bruno chose to make his career in the CFL.
Bruno went on to serve as the head coach of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and led them to their 14th Grey Cup Championship and was awarded the Annis Stukus Trophy as the CFL Coach of the Year. He also spent time in the CFL with the Ottawa Rough Riders (1954) and Winnipeg Blue Bombers (1955-56).