Daniel Hand High School

Tiger Football

After finishing our 52nd year of play, the Tigers boast an impressive record of 423—142—7 (75%). With 28 Division titles, 24 trips to the post season, and 14 state titles, the Tigers have enjoyed success in every decade since the program’s inception. The proud history of Hand football began in 1970 when Larry Ciotti was hired to start a high school football program in Madison, CT. Coach Ciotti demanded discipline, toughness, and total commitment from his players. His approach yielded immediate success with an undefeated season in 1973 and back to back state titles in 1976-77. In 1989, Larry Ciotti passed the program on to Steve Filippone. Coach Filippone worked tirelessly to carry on the proud legacy of Hand Football and built upon the rich tradition of success earning his 200th win in 2012 along with his 7th State title. Coach Fil retired after the 2016 campaign and gave the head coaching reigns over to Dave Mastroianni who carried on the tradition and won back to back state titles in 2017 and 2018! Erik Becker took over in 2021 as the first alumni to be Head Coach for the Tigers! Coach Becker’s Tigers won the 2023 State Championship to continue the proud legacy! TIGER PRIDE!!  GO TIGERS!!

2023 Tigers

The Tigers beat Rockville 57-20 to win the Class M State Championship!!  #TigerPride

Tiger Pride Football Association Scholarship

2023 winner will be announced at the Banquet

  • Poll of the Week!

  • Video of the Week

    Hand Football Highlights 1971-2022