For Gray Collegiate Academy quarterback Todd Helms, his college search went quickly and was extensive.

In the span of 2 years, he and his parents looked into 35 schools who expressed some interest in his talents. After shortening the list to 2 schools - Holy Cross and the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga - the Helms spent the weekend finalizing the college choice.

After nearly 5 hours of what the younger Helms called was a "gut-wretching" decision, he decided to take his talents up 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 school."

Helms held his official visit at the Football Championship Subdivision school in the Patriot League this past weekend. Not only was he encouraged by the cameraderie with the players and 2nd year head coach Bob Chesney, but the opportunity to earn a degree in finance from a prestigious school.

With the college search 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 2 seasons and looks to lead the War Eagles to a 2nd straight region title and further into the post-season after last year’s 3rd round finish.