Student: Marquel Bruley
Year in School: Senior
Plans After High School: Marquel wants to enlist in the military and serve in the Navy or Air Force, then attend a university with aspiration of becoming a surgeon.
GPS Focus: GROWTH, PRIDE, & SERVICE
What Makes Marquel #BulldogSTRONG: In 2019, the Golden Valley High School football program showed tremendous GROWTH as they improved into a formidable force against their opponents. The Bulldogs competed with a grit and determination that proved that there is an optimistic future as they were involved in some of the more memorable games of the year including last second finishes against East Bakersfield HIgh School, South High School, and West High School. Part of the rapid GROWTH of the Bulldogs came from a talented and committed junior class of which included the super utility player, #3 Marquel Bruley. Serving as the ultimate team player, Marquel played QB, WR, CB, and Free Safety, earning a spot on the South Yosemite League 2nd Team for his play on the field. Statistically, Marquel had a solid junior campaign - completing 60% of his passing, 917 pass yards, 122 rush yards, 5 passing TDs, 2 rushing TDs, 1 TD reception, 43 tackles, and 9 deflections. Beyond his individual glory on the gridiron, Marquel is most proud of the direction of the Bulldogs under Head Coach James Cain. “Before Coach Cain, the coaches didn’t really have the confidence in the players,” states Bruley, “With Coach Cain, players and coaches are starting to have confidence in themselves and the direction of the program because things are done the right way.” With hopes of coming back in January, Marquel is optimistic that the Bulldogs can finish above .500 for their overall record and make a deep run in the playoffs.
In addition to the GROWTH on the football field, Marquel has also experienced it on the court as a guard on the Bulldogs basketball team. Through discipline and confidence instilled by Head Coach and GV Alum Jayson Heard, Marquel and his teammates are moving in the right direction as evident last year with a key victory against South Yosemite League power, Ridgeview High School. On the court, Marquel averaged 11.5 points per game as one of the sharpshooting 3 point specialists for the Bulldogs. Furthermore, Marquel was able to add about 4 rebounds per game and 2 steals to help a much improved Bulldogs basketball team. Like his goal in football, Marquel wants his basketball team to be above .500 overall and make a deep run in the playoffs. For both football and basketball, Marquel takes PRIDE in being a Bulldog. “The most rewarding aspect of playing football and basketball at Golden Valley High School is being able to represent our school and its colors.”
Beyond athletics, Marquel is quick to point out the staff at Golden Valley High School as major influences in his years as a Bulldog. He gives credit to his Spanish teacher Eva Perez because in his words, “She would never lead me in the wrong path as she always wants the best for me.” He also gives kudos to his chemistry teacher, Raelin Villalobos because she always pushed him to work hard, never letting him slack off. Marquel even recognizes Mr. Helman, Golden Valley’s principal, for always encouraging him. “Every single time I see him, he checks up on me,” states Marquel, “He says things like, ‘Are you good?’ and ‘I’m here if you need anything.’” Overall, Marquel’s experience at Golden Valley High School has been great and hopes to be back in school to finish his senior year in person. For his efforts on the football field, on the basketball court, and in his appreciation towards the staff at Golden Valley High School, Marquel Bruley is #BulldogSTRONG.
In Week 10 against West High School, Marquel Bruley had a TD reception as QB showing that he is #BulldogSTRONG.
What #BulldogSTRONG Means to Marquel: "#BulldogSTRONG means to keep working hard no matter how hard the circumstances are. It means to take PRIDE in being a Bulldog by representing the school and its colors.”
What Teachers and Staff Think of Marquel:
"Marquel Bruley was a bright spot in the Bulldog football program when I arrived on campus. And still remains one. As one of the many Juniors On this past years team, he immediately dove into the lead by example role for his team. Showed up and worked hard and willing to do whatever it takes to help the team. Just as smart in the classroom as he is on the field. Marquel was the perfect example of what a student athlete should be. Excited to have him and his leadership back as we prepare for a great football season.” James Cain, Head Varsity Football Coach, Golden Valley High School
“Mr. Bruley, well I found him to be one of the bright spots in my day. He has an incredible spirit and infectious personality I came to appreciate at the end of the day during 6th period. Marquel always embodied # BulldogStrong pride in my classroom. He was always willing to help others and worked extremely well with his partner. Marquel is part of several sports teams on campus, which he excels and continues to show growth in academics and self. I for one cannot wait to get back to in person classes to see his smiling face again” Raelin Villalobos, Chemistry Teacher, Golden Valley High School
"I had the pleasure of having Marquel in my Spanish 3 class. From the first day, he demonstrated Golden Valley pride. Being the athlete that he is, he took on Spanish as a challenge and let me tell you, he did great. Marquel went to his practices and still made time to come to class after school and ask questions. His academic growth from the very first day was amazing. His pronunciation got better and his understanding of the language was evident. I even called him my “native speaker”. He possesses great social skills and because of this there was never a dull moment in class with Marquel. He is the type of person that helps others before himself. He has a kind soul and is an amazing young man. Marquel is a clear example of Golden Valley ‘Growth, Pride and Service’” Eva Perez, Spanish Teacher, Golden Valley High School
“Marquel is an outstanding student athlete. He is one of those athletes coaches say they wish they had a whole team of Marquels. Marquel stepped up big last year in taking on the Quarterback role on the football team. Watching him grow throughout the summer was a joy. The leadership he learned on the football field really showed up big time on the basketball court. With his leadership the basketball team was a force to be reckoned with. I can’t wait till we can get back to the field or court and see him excel again this year.” Robert Haskell, Athletic Director, Golden Valley High School
“Marquel is extremely competitive by nature and drives himself to be the best in every situation. He has shown a tremendous amount of GROWTH and maturity since becoming a varsity starting wing as a sophomore. ”Jayson Heard, Head Varsity Basketball Coach, Golden Valley High School