Cruce is a 1998 graduate of Bethany College. He holds a master's in physical education from Northern State University (NSU). Cruce graduated from Salina South High School in 1994 and played linebacker at Hutchinson Community College before transferring to Bethany. He was a linebacker on the 1995 and 1996 KCAC championship teams, captained the 1997 team and earned All-KCAC honors. Cruce’s three year playing record while at Bethany was 25-5 including a 22-2 conference record. 

Prior to his current appointment, Cruce served as Bethany’s Defensive Coordinator for six seasons. During that time, Cruce led 30 defensive players to All-Conference honors.  In addition to his football duties, Cruce served as the school’s Intramural Director.

Before returning to Bethany College in 2001, Cruce spent one season at Northern State University in Aberdeen, SD as Linebackers Coach. He served as Linebackers coach and Strength and Conditioning Coordinator at Anderson University in Anderson, IN prior to his appointment at NSU.

Cruce has a son, Dillon and is married to Amy (Jacobs) Cruce of Cheyenne Wells, Colo.

Coaching Accomplishments
2006                 #4 Nationally Ranked Pass Defense (99.5 ypg)

2005                 #2 Nationally Ranked Pass Defense (125.6 ypg)
                          One 1st Team All Conference Defensive Player

2004                 #5 Nationally Ranked Pass Defense (131.1 ypg )
                          #1 Scoring Defense in Conference
                          Allowed 4 Passing Touchdowns
                          Conference Defensive Player of the Year
                          3rd Team All American Defensive Player
                          Two 1st Team All Conference Defensive Players

2003                 One 1st Team All Conference Defensive Player

2002                 One 1st Team All Conference Defensive Player    
                          
2001                 Conference Champions
                          Top 20 National Ranking in Total Defense and Pass Defense
                           #1 Scoring Defense in Conference
                          Three 1st Team All Conference Defensive Players
 
Coaching Background
2007-Present       Bethany College, Head Football Coach
2001-2006            Bethany College, Defensive Coordinator
2000                       Northern State University, Graduate Assistant Linebacker Coach
1999                       Anderson University,  Linebacker Coach / Strength & Conditioning Coordinator
1998                       Bethany College, Student Assistant