Gray Collegiate Academy’s quarterback Hunter Helms experienced a quick but extensive college search.

In the span of two years, he and his parents looked into 35 schools that expressed some interest in his talents. Helms shortened the list to two schools – Holy Cross and the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga – then his family spent the weekend finalizing his college choice.

After nearly five hours of what the younger Helms called a “gut-wrenching” decision, he chose to head north and compete for the purple and white of the Crusaders.

“I chose Holy Cross,” said Helms in a telephone interview. “It was just a great fit, not just for the football, but the education is (comparable) to an Ivy League.”

Helms held his official visit to the Football Championship Subdivision school in Worcester, Mass. last weekend. Not only was he encouraged by the camaraderie with the players and second year head coach Bob Chesney, but also the opportunity to earn a degree in finance from a prestigious school.

Now that the college search is over, Helms can fully focus on the upcoming season. The school’s career leader in victories, passing yards, completions and touchdowns, Helms has thrown for over 6,000 yards and 50 touchdowns in two seasons. He is looking to lead the War Eagles to a second straight region title, and further into the post-season after last year’s third round finish.