Sophomore quarterback Will Grier threw for 28 touchdowns and just two interceptions last year and is beginning to attract college recruiting attention. But Grier and the rest of the Patriots will now see how they measure up against varsity foes.

“We’re going to strap it on and get after it,” says Patriots coach Chad Grier, Will’s father.

Davidson Day will play in the N.C. Independent Schools Athletic Association’s Division III classification, which includes a total of seven teams. The plan is to move to the Division II level next year and ultimately the Division I class, which includes teams such as Charlotte Latin and Charlotte Country Day. The Patriots open with Harrells Christian.

If the Patriots are to be successful, they will have to do it on the road. The Patriots have just two “home” games, and neither are on campus.

Davidson Day will spend next week at Camp Arrowhead in Asheville.