Ridgefield Football Expects To Contend For State Playoff Berth

Though it lost 16 seniors to graduation, Ridgefield's varsity football team is poised for another run at the state playoffs.

The Tigers play in arguably Connecticut's best conference  in the FCIAC, but the CIAC expanded the postseason field from 24 for 32 teams, giving Ridgefield a better chance of making the playoffs this season. Last year, the Tigers were left out in the cold despite a 9-1 record.

"We have gotten younger," Ridgefield coach Kevin Callahan said, "but we have a lot more team speed and we have a lot of young guys that really committed themselves to team and participating in our summer working out program."   

Led by University of Florida-offensive tackle  recruit Tommy Jordan and senior quarterback Griffin McCarty, the Tigers' goal certainly is to make the state tournament. A  year ago, they were one of four 9-1 teams who failed to qualify in the rugged Class LL division.

"We are going to ride Jordan as far as he will take us,"  said Callahan, who is entering his 12th season at Ridgefield.

The 6-5, 300-pound Jordan has been impressed by the Tigers' speed during preseason practices.

"Last year we would punch you in the mouth and occasionally run around you," he said. "This year we are going to fly to the ball, especially on defense." 

According to Callahan,  40 freshman - an unheard of number - tried out for the team and 38 newcomers participated in the team's summer workout program.

"I like what I have seen with all the guys through the summer and recent practices," Callahan said. "I  see a lot of talent, but I won't know how good we really are until after the first game."  

In addition to Jordan and McCarty, Christopher O'Day and Stephen Gherardi --  who  are wide receivers and defensive backs -- were named as co-captains of the varsity team.

According to Callahan, sophomore running backs Sam Gravatti and Bryn Jimenez could surprise in their first season of varsity ball.

Callahan also is high on senior Duncan Cousins, the Tigers', punter who also plays on the offensive and defensive line. Senior fullback and middle linebacker John Turner is another player who shown promise in the preseason.