New Canaan Hosts Annual 7‑on‑7 Passing Tournament
The 19th edition of the Grip It and Rip It 7‑on‑7 passing tournament opened its doors in New Canaan this week, drawing a crowd of eager coaches, players and fans ready to see the state’s top talent tested in a fast‑paced, non‑contact format.
Twenty‑six squads representing 25 different high schools have converged, with 21 of those programs hailing from Connecticut alone. The field includes powerhouses from the FCIAC, SCC, SWC, CTC and NEPSAC, as well as a handful of elite teams from the NEPSAC circuit.
Schedule and Structure
Friday’s action will be devoted to pool play, after which Saturday’s double‑elimination format will take over. Every team is assured a minimum of six games, guaranteeing ample opportunities for quarterbacks and receivers to showcase their precision under pressure.
Among the participants are the recent CIAC champions Greenwich and New Canaan, both of which entered the bracket as defending titleholders. Their presence adds a layer of intrigue, especially after Windsor captured last year’s crown, becoming the first CIAC school to win the tournament since 2021.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The event serves as a bellwether for the upcoming 2026 Connecticut high school football season, giving coaches a chance to experiment with new schemes and evaluate depth before the regular season begins. As tournament director Dave Stewart noted, the competition is as much about building chemistry as it is about polishing individual skill.
Beyond the on‑field drama, the tournament highlights the collaborative effort of local organizers, media partners and school districts that have kept the tradition alive for nearly two decades.