The Hampden-Sydney brotherhood is a lifelong bond—deep, enduring, and cherished by generations of men who join this historic family. Among them are many who share not just the Hampden-Sydney experience but also the bond of being actual brothers. Among the many sibling pairs at Hampden-Sydney are Sutton Lasso ’25 and Manning Lasso ’27. Both economics and business majors and members of the Hampden-Sydney Football team, the Lasso brothers are a standout example of what it means to be brothers in every sense at Hampden-Sydney.
Sutton’s path to Hampden-Sydney began during COVID, when he visited campus for The Game in spring 2021. A tight end who had played football since his sophomore year of high school, he was looking for a place where he could succeed on the field and prepare for life after graduation. After spending a day on campus and experiencing the Hampden-Sydney brotherhood firsthand, Sutton was drawn in by the strong sense of community and the opportunities ahead.
“Everything they say is real—the strong sense of brotherhood, the beautiful campus, the committed professors, the relationships you form, and the resources available—it’s all true,” Sutton says. “Before Manning became part of the brotherhood, he had visited me, and I shared what my experience had been like. Once he saw it all for himself, everything I’d said rang true—and that’s what led him to join me here.”
Manning, a wide receiver, began his college journey at the University of Charlotte, where he enrolled after high school to play football. After his freshman year, he decided to transfer—motivated in part by the chance to share the field once more with his older brother who had first introduced him to the game back in high school. The decision was further solidified when Manning learned that his high school quarterback, Wade Warren ’27, was also playing for Hampden-Sydney. With both familiar faces on the team, the Hill quickly felt like the right fit.
“I knew I wanted to play alongside Sutton again, but it was more than that—the brotherhood, the chance to make lasting memories, earn a meaningful degree, and connect with a strong alumni network all played a part,” Manning says. “It felt like a mature decision, and I’m grateful I chose this path.”
Both brothers highlighted the thrill of the competition and the strong sense of team bonding it creates. By holding each other to high standards both on and off the field, they have challenged each other to succeed, growing throughout their time on the Hill. Sutton shared that he has matured and honed his social skills, building stronger connections with both students and professors, while Manning has sharpened his time management abilities, balancing athletics and academics more effectively.
Despite their busy athletics and academic schedules, both brothers make time to unwind through the activities they enjoy—playing guitar, watching sports, spending time with friends, and fishing. On campus, Lake Chalgrove offers a peaceful retreat with its beautiful scenery, while Fulton Field is where they dedicate much of their time, entertaining Tiger fans on game day. Together, they strike a healthy balance between all aspects of life on the Hill and serve as strong role models for their peers along the way.
“Hampden-Sydney offers the ideal balance of academics, social life, and athletics,” Manning says. “Add in the beautiful campus scenery year-round and the dedication of professors who truly want to see you succeed, and it really is the perfect place to be.”
Sutton expanded on Manning’s remarks: “It’s a great place to make the most of your college experience. Hampden-Sydney has that close-knit community feel where everyone is striving toward a shared goal, and there’s a strong sense of accountability in every aspect of life on the Hill.”
Both Sutton and Manning have experienced the strength of the close-knit community, growing even closer as brothers in the process. Manning shared that he looks up to Sutton as a role model, appreciating how he looks out for him, motivates him to be his best, and gives his all both on and off the field.
“Watching Sutton play college football, witnessing his success, hearing the positive feedback from our teammates, and seeing his relentless effort all the time is something I really admire,” Manning says. “He’s a great teammate, a hard worker, and an even better brother.”
Looking ahead, Sutton will work in retail for soccer.com, traveling across the country while staying connected to the sports world. This summer, Manning will intern at soccer.com, with Sutton overseeing his younger brother, further deepening their bond and brotherly connection.
“I feel like I’ve had the chance to teach and be a role model for Manning while he’s been here,” Sutton says. “At the same time, having my younger brother on campus with me has helped me grow into a better person, and I believe it’s made us appreciate each other more, which has been really great.”
The memories of old football plays and the time spent together on the Hill will be cherished for years to come. As Sutton moves forward to the next chapter of his life, Manning looks ahead to his future on the Hill, continuing his football career and passing on the same brotherly love and guidance that Sutton has shown him. Their bond will remain a lasting part of their time at Hampden-Sydney, and the impact they’ve had on each other will resonate far beyond their time on campus.