March 23, 2026
As a college committed to excellence, Hampden-Sydney strives to uphold the highest standards in every endeavor. Our athletics programs are no exception. This year, Hampden-Sydney lacrosse proudly celebrates its 50th anniversary – a milestone that reflects a legacy of achievement, discipline, and brotherhood.
To mark this historic occasion, Erik Morgan, a current trustee of the College, has made a transformative $1 million gift to the Rostan Family Head Lacrosse Coach Endowment. His generosity significantly strengthens the program’s ability to shape student-athletes and sustain its tradition of excellence for generations to come.
This endowment honors the Rostan family. Coach Ray Rostan led Hampden-Sydney lacrosse for 37 seasons and built one of the most respected programs in the nation. A five-time ODAC Coach of the Year, Rostan retired ranked eighth in all-time career wins across all three NCAA divisions – an extraordinary testament to his leadership and impact. His wife, Karen Rostan served the College for twenty years in the Hampden-Sydney Bookstore. Ray and Karen’s son, Jason Rostan '03, succeeded his father as head coach of the program, and is now in his 23rd year at Hampden-Sydney, and his 10th year as head coach.
This anniversary year also coincides with the College’s 250th anniversary celebration, offering a meaningful opportunity to reflect on Hampden-Sydney’s enduring mission of forming good men and good citizens. In that spirit, the lacrosse program honors the memory of two remarkable members, Ben Lagow ’26 and Stock Watson ’90. Both men exemplified the very best of Hampden-Sydney, forging connections across generations and bringing energy, purpose, and authenticity to every interaction they had.
In tribute to their lasting influence and in recognition of these two great men, we are pleased to announce the naming of the Lagow-Watson Lacrosse Locker Room. This space will stand as a permanent reminder of their legacy and the profound impact they had on teammates, classmates, and all who knew them.
The College has set a goal of raising $2 million in support of the Rostan Family Endowment. In addition to Morgan’s leadership gift, generous contributions from Colin Dunn ’08, Harry Jones ’94, Steven Hall and Robin Hall Putnam, John Gibson ’82, the Worthen family, the Lagow family, and other loyal alumni have brought the current total to $1.5 million.