High school football programs across the Southwest gathered this week at Monument Valley High School for the 18th Annual 7‑on‑7 Passing Tournament and Big Man Challenge, a summer ritual that draws squads from Arizona, New Mexico and Utah.
A Milestone in Summer Preparation
With just 62 days left before the 2026 season kicks off in Arizona and New Mexico, the event serves as a crucial checkpoint for coaches to assess newly minted starting lineups after the graduation of last year’s seniors.
Teams used the passing drills and one‑on‑one line battles to evaluate fresh talent, as the departure of senior starters forced coaches to integrate younger players and test different combinations.
Some programs traveled considerable distances, with a contingent from Prescott Valley, Arizona, making the trek north to the Navajo Nation venue, underscoring the regional reach of the competition.
Bradshaw Mountain High School, a regular participant, highlighted its long‑standing summer tradition of visiting Kayenta for the tournament, with head coach Bob Young praising the quality of play from New Mexico and Utah opponents.
The clash of styles and the intensity of the drills not only sharpened skills but also fostered camaraderie among players aiming to build chemistry before the upcoming season.