Tigers tackle football in Europe

Published 8:00 am Saturday, August 2, 2025

From Rome to Naples, the Hampden-Sydney College football team went on an international adventure this summer, a few weeks after school ended. Along with football players, a number of college alumni, family members and coaches made the trip.

During their time overseas, Hampden-Sydney scrimmaged Briganti Napoli, an American football club based in Naples.

“The trip wasn’t about playing dominant football overseas; it was about camaraderie, team bonding, and building up the brotherhood,” Tigers Head Football Coach Vince Luvara said. “When else are you going to be able to take a trip to Rome or a foreign country for eight days with your best friends from college?”

The answer is not often. For some of the participants, the trip marked their first international voyage.

“From the very beginning, the trip was about more than just football-it was about building deeper connections with coaches and teammates,” says quarterback, rising senior and team captain Carter Sido. “Whether it was sharing laughs during team dinners or bonding during travel, every moment helped strengthen the team’s chemistry. Exploring historic and breathtaking sites added a unique perspective to the trip and made the journey all the more meaningful.”

Game day brought its own excitement for Sido.

“Watching the younger guys play more, getting to know the new players, and sharing the field with an Italian team who had never experienced competition at that level before, really created memories that will last a lifetime,” Sido added.

THE POWER OF SPORTS

After the game, Sido and several players had the chance to hang out with the Italian team and enjoy dinner together-a moment that showed the power of sports to bring people from different cultures together.

“This is something every player should experience,” Sido said. “It’s truly once in a lifetime.”

Coming in as a freshman, cornerback Parks Cromwell was a little hesitant, but he felt the overall experience was amazing.

“The chance to bond with upperclassmen helped break down barriers and build relationships that will carry into the season ahead,” Cromwell added, saying his highlight of the trip was the Vatican. “Learning about the Pope selection process and hearing insights from the tour guide added more excitement to an already unforgettable stop.”

Meanwhile, for senior linebacker and team captain Robert Clarke, the trip exceeded expectations.

“More importantly, it became a powerful bonding experience that deepened the sense of brotherhood across the team,” Clarke said.

On game day, Clarke was truly inspired by the passion of the Italian players, recalling that competing against an opponent of such high caliber and seeing their pure love for the game, reignited a deeper appreciation for football.

“This trip was eye-opening,” he added. “Seeing how excited they were to play us and how much they loved the game-it reminded us why we play. Every moment, from the sights to the relationships, made this trip unforgettable.”