The 19th edition of the Grip It and Rip It 7‑on‑7 passing tournament opened in New Canaan, drawing 26 squads from 25 high schools across the Northeast. The event serves as an early barometer for the upcoming 2026 high school football season, gathering programs from a wide geographic footprint.
Among the participants are the reigning CIAC Class LL champions Greenwich and the Class L title‑holders New Canaan, both of which have embraced the passing‑focused format as a springboard for their offensive schemes. In total, 21 Connecticut programs and five New York schools earned spots in the field, reflecting the tournament’s growing regional appeal.
Competition begins with pool‑play on Friday, after which teams move into a double‑elimination bracket on Saturday. The structure guarantees each squad at least six games, ensuring ample opportunities for coaches to experiment with play‑calling and for players to showcase their passing skill sets before the fall season kicks into high gear.
A tradition that bridges seasons
The tournament’s history adds a layer of narrative intrigue. Previous champions include Windsor, which edged Ludlowe in last year’s final, Bloomfield’s 2019 triumph, New Canaan’s 2018 victory, and Cardinal Hayes (N.Y.) in 2023. Each of these titles has been claimed by a different host school, underscoring the event’s rotating nature and its role in fostering new rivalries.
This year’s field also reflects the broader high school sports landscape, with representatives from the FCIAC, SCC, SWC, CTC, and NEPSAC all competing. The involvement of these conferences highlights the tournament’s integration with established athletic associations and its importance as a connective tissue for teams across the state and beyond.