From the city lights of Dallas to the starlight of Hampden-Sydney, two-time Hampden-Sydney Football captain Carter Sido ’26 took a leap of faith—and embraced a place he now proudly calls home.
Every Hampden-Sydney man’s journey to fulfilling the College’s call to become a good man and good citizen begins before he sets foot on the Hill. Each arrives seeking challenge, character, and community—and finds a brotherhood that shapes him for life. For Carter, that moment came during his first recruitment visit in the winter of 2021, when he first stepped on campus and knew immediately that Hampden-Sydney was where he belonged.
“When I came for my first visit, it just felt like home,” Carter says. “The campus was beautiful; everyone was so genuine; and I even got to meet President Larry Stimpert. I could tell right away this was a place where I could really grow and succeed.”
The Hill looked much different from Dallas the time Carter visited—snow covered campus as he met the football coaching staff and players, including Braden Bowling ’24 and Jamahdia Whitby ’24, who welcomed and toured him around. With a strong background in various sports, Carter understood how essential supportive teammates and a strong brotherhood are to success. That sense of community played a key role in his choice to join the Tigers.
“I got to spend time with the guys and immediately felt like part of the group,” Carter says. “I never felt out of place—I felt like I belonged from the start, and that meant a lot to me.”
Arriving on the Hill as a student in the fall of 2022, Carter quickly found his stride and excelled both on and off the field. He served as a football captain during his junior and now senior years and has earned significant honors, including three selections to the ODAC All-Academic Team, Third Team All-ODAC in 2024, and a nomination to the 2025 Allstate American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) Good Works Team. He also supports the fight against cancer through Quarterbacks vs Cancer, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Beyond football, Carter contributes to campus life as a member of the Minority Student Union, Brother4Brother, Student Senate, and as vice president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.
“I’ve loved every second here,” Carter smiles. “Hampden-Sydney is home.”
Carter’s leadership, dedication, and hard work have contributed significantly to the Tigers’ success. In September, the Tigers earned the No. 21 national ranking spot in the AFCA Division III Coaches Poll—their highest ranking since 2012—reflecting the impact Carter has had on and off the field.
“I knew I wanted to be a leader and help this football team win,” Carter says. “When I was recruited, that was the main goal, and it’s remained the focus. Through everything we’ve gone through—the trials and challenges—we've become stronger football players and individuals. We have faced a lot together, and it’s strengthened us, not only as football players but as individuals. We’re more resilient and better equipped to handle adversity. Football has shaped me on the field, but it’s also helped me grow off the field as a person.”
Off the gridiron, Carter enjoys staying busy with a variety of activities, from golfing at the Manor and fishing to attending Tuesday Bible studies, spending time with friends, relaxing at the Tiger Inn and Lake Chalgrove, following other sports, and dedicating time to his academics.
Carter says his academic performance has improved significantly over the years as he has fully embraced his education at Hampden-Sydney. He credits Lecturer in History and Core Cultures Kylie Hulbert—whose courses he has taken multiple times—as a professor who has helped sharpen his academic skills. Carter highlights that the combination of the supportive atmosphere, small class sizes, and safe learning environment have all contributed to his growth as a student.
“Dr. Hulbert is always so passionate about learning, and I’ve been exposed to some really fascinating material,” Carter says. “I’ve not only learned a lot from her classes, but her whole family even comes to our football games. Her daughter is one of our biggest fans. Honestly, she doesn’t feel like just a professor—she feels like a family friend.”
Reflecting on his time on the Hill, Carter encourages every student to cherish the small moments and embrace friendships and the brotherhood. He notes that time on the Hill flies by quickly, but it can be the best years of your life if you make the most of every opportunity.
“One of my favorite memories has to be former Head Football Coach Marty Favret’s last home game at Fulton Field,” Carter says. “James Townsend ’26 blocked the extra point against Shenandoah University to win the game, and we all stormed the field—players, students, alumni, and anyone at the game. I’ll never forget that moment. Playing Delaware Valley University and throwing touchdowns to Mason Cunningham ’26 are also memorable highlights—moments where you realize all your hard work is paying off. Being on the field, achieving success together, and sharing those experiences with the team has been incredible and unforgettable.”
Beyond his love for Hampden-Sydney, Carter draws inspiration from his parents, whom he considers role models for encouraging him to be his best self and supporting him in every way. Looking ahead, he hopes to pursue a master’s degree but is taking time to explore his options, adding, “I’ll see where the Lord wants me.” With limitless possibilities ahead, Carter is focused on enjoying his remaining time on the Hill and cherishing the friendships, brotherhood, and experiences that have defined his journey. As he puts it: “Shout out to all my teammates, the football team, the brotherhood, and all the fans for all the support. Roll Tigers!”