Charles J. Tarver (born July 10, 1984) is an American former professional gridiron football wide receiver. He played college football at Hudson Valley Community College and subsequently pursued a career in various indoor and arena football leagues, as well as a brief stint in the Canadian Football League (CFL).
Early life and education
Tarver was born in Albany, New York, and attended Bishop Maginn High School, where he participated in both football and basketball. After high school, he enrolled at Hudson Valley Community College, playing as a wide receiver for the college football team. He later transferred to Schenectady County Community College, where he continued his athletic involvement, focusing on basketball.
Professional career
- Albany Metro Mallers (2011–2013) – Began his senior-level play in the semi‑professional circuit.
- Saginaw Sting (2012–2013, 2014, 2015) – Joined the Continental Indoor Football League (CIFL) team. Tarver earned CIFL Special Teams Player of the Year honors in 2012 and 2013 and was named CIFL Most Valuable Player in 2013. He contributed to the Sting’s CIFL championship victory in 2012.
- Trenton Freedom (2014) – Played in the Professional Indoor Football League (PIFL).
- Winnipeg Blue Bombers (2014) – Signed with the CFL franchise in April 2014; his tenure was limited to offseason and/or practice‑squad duties.
- Erie Explosion (2015) – Competed in the PIFL.
- Abilene Warriors (2016) – Played in American Indoor Football.
- Winston Wildcats (2016) – Continued participation in indoor football leagues.
- Boston Blaze (2017) – Joined the Can‑Am Indoor Football League.
Awards and honors
- CIFL Special Teams Player of the Year (2012, 2013)
- CIFL Most Valuable Player (2013)
- CIFL Champion (2012)
Tarver’s professional career was characterized by his versatility on special teams and his contributions as a wide receiver across multiple indoor football organizations. As of the latest available information, he is a free agent and has not announced retirement from professional play.