Image courtesy of Dan Heary By Andy Close and Rob Gullo NEFJ Correspondends The talent in the state of Connecticut has arguably never been better. With that in mind, here are the preseason First and Second CIAC All-State Teams. FIRST TEAM OFFENSE QB-Easton Pace, Norwalk (Junior)  Though they didn’t make the postseason last year, Easton Pace made a name for himself as arguably the most dual-threat quarterback in the state last……

The Connecticut high school football season begins in nearly two weeks, kicking off on Thursday, September 10, 2026. Many teams that were in the championship games a season ago return as some of the most talented teams in the state while other teams will look to make a name for themselves this upcoming season. Here are the top-25 CIAC teams heading into the 2026 season: 1. New Canaan The New…

By Andy Close & Rob Gullo NEFJ Correspondents There’s guaranteed to be at least one new state champion in 2026 in the CIAC. Several prominent programs are moving classifications this season, a shakeup that should lead to some potentially intriguing postseason matchups. With that in mind, here’s a look at the six classes, featuring favorites, contenders, and teams that could surprise. Class LL: Greenwich once again the favorite  Greenwich is…

NEEDHAM – In 2023 and 2024, Needham not only put itself back on the map, the Rockets stunned the state with a trip to the Super Bowl after a loss in the state semifinals the year prior. Last season was a three-win down year for head coach Doug Kopcso and his crew, but it ultimately turned into learning lessons for this season. Now, heading into 2026, new leaders are emerging,…

By Colby Shannon NEFJ Correspondent FRANKLIN — At Pisini Field on Monday afternoon, the phrase “All In” could be seen in powder blue text on top of a sweat-drenched gray shirt. It made the mindset for the 2026 season very clear. This year, Franklin will look to bounce back from a disappointing 5-6 season, which saw the team get routed in the Hockomock championship by King Philip High School. Monday’s…

By Michael Najarian NEFJ Correspondent NATICK — Summer temperatures remain, but fall is just around the corner as it’s officially football season for Natick. The Redhawks kicked off practice with the hope that a mix of talented returners and fresh faces will lead to another successful season and a deeper run in the MIAA Division I tournament. Here’s what stood out during the first practice: Caissie Leading Potent Offense —…

By Mukala Kabongo NEFJ Correspondent DANVERS – St. John’s Prep looks to return to Gillette Stadium with a loaded offense led by Ohio State commit Christopher Vargas. The Eagles kicked off their first practice with an emphasis on playing with a sense of urgency. Here’s a few things that stood out during Day 1 of camp for Prep: Quarterback – Earlier this month Vargas announced his commitment to play football…

By Mukala Kabongo NEFJ Correspondent LAWRENCE – It’s clear that senior leadership will pave the way for Central Catholic during the 2026 season under new head coach John Dubzinski. New Face Leading the Way – After taking a year off, Coach Dubzinski returned to the field, bringing in his many years of coaching experience at North Andover. During the Raiders’ first practice, Dubzinski – who replaced coach John Sexton -…