While he went on to represent a bevy of teams throughout his 23-year career, Steve Charles got his start at Columbia, helping the program to back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances.
In 1979, Charles was a first team All-Ivy League pick for the second consecutive year, also picking up conference MVP honors while becoming a first team All-American selection. Columbia became conference champions for the second straight year with a 14-4-1 overall record, winning games in the NCAA Tournament over Hartwick and Rhode Island before advancing to the Final Four.
"Charlie" as he was known, impressed during his final season, breaking school records in goals with 27 and points with 60. His name is also found on the career record books for his performance in 1978-79, as the programs third all-time leading goal scorer with 36, and is tied for third best with 79 career points.
After his sophomore season, Charles left the program to return to his native Sheffield and play for Sheffield United. In addition, Charles pursued a Master's degree in Sport Science from Sheffield University. In 1987, Charles moved to Mansfield Town, making his debut on August 15, 1987 against Bristol City. During his first season, he scored 12 goals, many of them from free kicks.
Charles spent six seasons at Mansfield Town, scoring 47 goals throughout his 278 games. He was inducted into the Mansfield Town Hall of Fame for his contribution as a player and influencer. Thereafter, he moved to Scarborough for three seasons and spent one year at Staybridge Celtic, before calling the curtains on his career at Boston United after three good seasons. Charles also briefly managed the English Conference North side Gainsborough Trinity between 2007 and 2009.
