With the pandemic cutting short the high school playing careers for many athletes, and effecting the recruiting process for others, families have turned to alternate options to maximizing exposure. One option is attending a boarding school like IMG Academy. Many families on Long Island have the means to do so and it effectively negates the lost year of development.
I spoke with Dylan Bruno, who transferred from St. Dominic to IMG Academy, this fall to see what went behind the decision and if we may see more students make similar moves.
Who are some people in your life that played a big role in your baseball career?
My father without a doubt. He pushed me day in and day out. He trained with me constantly and started coaching me since I was 8-years-old. He always put our team against the toughest competition which is why our team always traveled and competed at the highest level. I think it made me better as a player. My mom is also one of my biggest supporters, not only did she support my baseball activities but she also pushed me to achieve academically. Vinny Punzone, Rob Savarese, Greg Thomson and especially Bobby DeMichael all brought out the best in me, and trained me and supported me. I have the utmost respect for each of them, and I can’t thank them enough for their support and training which made me the player that I am today.
Who are your favorite players in Major League Baseball?
My favorite player in the MLB is Clayton Kershaw. I’ve always admired him and his strong work ethic and ability to dominate.
Can you explain your decision to attend IMG Academy? Have you enjoyed it so far and do you think this is a beneficial route for kids in 2020-’21?
My decision to attend the IMG Academy became an easy one when I lost my senior season. Luckily for me I graduated high school at 17, so I had the gift of time to do a post graduate year. I think it was a very beneficial decision in my favor because it gives another year of training, playing and growth at one of the best baseball programs in the country. I transitioned really well to my new home at IMG – getting into my daily college-like routing of balancing training and academics. I think that this is a huge benefit for kids to choose this route because it allows you to get an extra year of training and growth and due to the pandemic this allows you to get another year of play.
Can you talk a little about the relationships you formed at St. Dominic’s and the LI Titans? What will you remember most fondly?
The relationships formed while playing for St. Dominic’s HS and the Long Island Body Armor Titans were breakable bonds. Each and every teammate I consider a brother for life. Even though our senior seasonin high school was canceled, the brotherhood we formed was made even stronger. One of my fondest memories will always be the years of traveling. The fun we had, the games we played and the team camaraderie will always be some of my best memories.
What did you do during quarantine to stay sharp?
During quarantine I was committed to staying strong and sharp. I continued my weight lifting routine at home. I had also consistently long tossed and threw bullpens. I had gone hitting as well. Originally, I was going to IMG to be a 2-way player, but decided I wanted to be a pitcher-only as that’s what I want to do in college.
What’s your favorite app on your phone?
My favorite app on my phone is Instagram. I like to keep up with my friends and my family while I’m far away from home.
Who is your favorite musical artist?
My favorite musical artist is Lil Baby, he get me amped up before I pitch.
What is your favorite meal?
My favorite meal is anything my mother cooks. Preferably chicken cutlets.
Was baseball always your No. 1 sport?
Baseball was always my No. 1 sport. I started playing when I was 4-years-old. It felt very natural to me and every time I step on the mound, it’s an unbeatable feeling to give it your all and just compete and dominate.
What is your goal for the upcoming season?
My goal for this upcoming season is to take all of my coaches at IMG’s great advice and experiences that they have to offer. I will put in all the hard work necessary to become the best pitcher I can possibly be.
