A tradition reborn
The 19th edition of the Grip It and Rip It 7‑on‑7 passing tournament is set to open in New Canaan this week, bringing together 26 squads drawn from 25 high schools across the Northeast.
Pool play will kick off on Friday afternoon, with matches scheduled for 1 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., before the competition shifts to a double‑elimination bracket on Saturday morning at 8 a.m., guaranteeing each team at least six contests.
Format and history
Among the participants are the recent CIAC champions Greenwich and New Canaan, while past titleholders such as Bloomfield, Choate Rosemary Hall and Cardinal Hayes will also be looking to add their names to the trophy.
The field of teams reflects a blend of the FCIAC, SCC, SWC, CTC and NEPSAC, illustrating the tournament’s role as a cross‑league showcase.
Games will be contested on Dunning Field and Water Tower Field at New Canaan High School, venues that have become synonymous with the event’s growing popularity.
Looking ahead to the fall
Organizer Dave Stewart emphasized the tournament’s importance as a barometer for the upcoming fall season, noting the increased intensity and the opportunity for underclassmen to make an early impression.
Coverage of the event is provided by Hearst Connecticut Media Group, which continues to document the region’s high school sports landscape.