Davie County has been offering a unique opportunity for middle and high school students since 2016. It’s to be a part of the “Davie Pride” Varsity and Junior-Varsity football teams, a member of the HFL. They welcome students in public schools, charter schools, private schools, and homeschools in Davie, Forsyth, Yadkin, Iredell, Rowan, and Davidson counties and surrounding communities. The only requirements are that the student be enrolled in school or already a high school graduate (also in the age range allowed), not currently playing on another football team. For Junior-Varsity, the students must be ages 12 to 15 as of August 1st, 2018. For Varsity, they must be 15 to 18 years old as of August 1st, 2018. All “open practices” and home games are played at Smith Grove Field at 4155 US-Hwy 158, in Advance, NC. The team travels for away games. In the past,this has included sites like Hester Park in Greensboro; the Boys & Girls Club in Johnson City, TN; Neal Middle School in Durham, NC; TC Roberson High School in Asheville, and Cardinal Gibbons High School in Raleigh, among others. The cost for the 2018 season is $295. Note: all first-year players also pay a one-time-only $100 equipment fee. The fees cover everything the player will need to play except mouth guards, cleats, and any equipment players and families wish to purchase themselves.
HFL Area Director, Team Founder & General Manager, Richard Carter, states, “This is 11-on-11, full-contact football, in a competitive league within a Christian environment where young men are coached and mentored, growing as followers of Christ and as players.” This is the part that makes this program and its members unique and a valuable sports and recreation option for area students to be involved in. Strong character traits are nurtured and encouraged. The HFL commission states they are “committed to encouraging young men and their families to embrace biblical principles in sports and all other areas of life, while diligently working to bring glory to our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Players are asked to sign a code of conduct acknowledging that the game is played for fun; that they will always attempt to maintain good sportsmanship and show respect for their fellow players, coaches, and referees; that they will not be prideful, and will encourage (never discourage) any player, regardless of their level of play. Parents as well are asked to show the same respect towards those participating and involved, including fellow parents in attendance. Parents understand that the priority is not winning. Instead, it’s to “build confidence” in these young men and provide experiences that make them better citizens in their community and life. Richard adds, “Any player who wants a lot of playing time on game day will very much enjoy Davie Pride Football.”
It’s not often you see this type of organized sports offered in an environment that inspires biblical principles and values and imparts those ideas to its athletes, coaches, officials, and parents alike. Davie Pride football abides in these core beliefs to help these young men succeed far beyond the playing field. The program’s hope is to provide more than a recreation activity, but also to add to the building blocks of a strong character, greater confidence, a dedicated faith to guide them through life, and a willingness to help others do the same.
All persons interested in participating are encouraged to attend a Davie Pride “Open Practice” at Smith Grove Field (4177 US Hwy 158, Advance, NC) every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 6:00 to7:30 pm from March 20th through July 12th. This includes new players and returning players. Richard advises, “There is no cost to attend 2018 open practices. Participating players should wear shorts/sweats, a T-shirt and cleats, provide their own hydration, and be prepared for light conditioning, basic drill, and offense/defense series rotation (non-contact).” These are voluntary, no contact, open practice sessions and attendance is solely at the player’s discretion. It’s a great opportunity for players and parents to learn more about the program. Early registration begins soon. The regular season runs July 14th through November 3rd.
For additional information, visit and “like” their Facebook page @DaviePride, or you may call or e-mail Richard Carter at 336-918-6160 [email protected].
Davie Pride combines the sport of football with the essential skills needed to succeed in life, and all in the spirit of camaraderie, fun, fellowship, andfaith.
