Chuck Hester was a Centaur from 1988 to the spring of 2014: over 25 years. He was one of the original Centaurs, and there are two still playing: Bill Murphy-Dyson and Glyn Williams.
Bill Carere used to say that Chuck learned all his soccer playing hockey in Manitoba. He was tough in the corners. He’s the only guy I know that always scrimmaged in blue jeans, or that treated every scrimmage as seriously as a game. He was fast. Pity the fool who thought Chuck was some old man you could just blow past. If he couldn’t catch you, which was rare, he’d make you pay on the way by. Even in scrimmage.
Most of all, Chuck represented Centaurs team character in the '90s. Modest talents, but hard running, tough tackling, going for everything, and never quit. Even in scrimmage. To that, we’ve added a bunch of talent, and maybe dialled down the physical stuff. At least in scrimmage.
Chuck rarely missed a game, unless it was because he couldn’t leave Carole with the situation at the house — or on one memorable occasion when he missed the email to “spring ahead.” He wasn’t an email kind of guy, but he did play the second half!
Chuck was an original Centaur, and we’re pleased to present his family with an original 1980s Centaurs jersey, and a donation of over $1000 to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC.
Hu Wallis
He was a nice guy, a tough defender, a good teammate and a formidable goalie indoors on Friday night!
Doug Page
I concur with Doug's sentiment. Chuck was a formidable player. Whatever he lacked in technical skills — much like myself —he made up for with speed, tenacity and sheer determination. It was always a treat to play along side him, but heaven help you if played against him. All the best wishes to Chuck and his family.
Jason Rush
Your description of Chuck brought back a memory of him getting concussed in what I think was his last year playing. He was determined to continue playing and we pretty much had to drag him off the pitch!
Darryl Galick
Too bad. I missed playing with him. Not against him though — he always had that burst of speed to solidly kick the crap out of me for five minutes straight, then sub off.
Michael Farrell
As with Mike, I was always heading to Friday nght indoor wondering if Chuck would show up, and if he did was he wearing his jeans for the big indoor slide tackle to take me out. Love you, Chuck. You will be missed.
Tim Dakin
Poor old Chuck. On the soccer field, even at I think 72, he was someone you didn’t want to get in the way of!
Bill Murphy-Dyson
Very sad news. Whenever I had "Chuckles my Bodyguard" patrolling in his right back position I knew someone was looking out for me in net. My favourite Chuck line was “Dave do you want me to get him for you?” — which always brought a smile to my face. Not to worry, Chuck, we always got their number and between the two us at that time we wouldn't forget. And I will never forget you Chuck!!
David Barnes
His on-field deportment is legendary. His off-field was the antithesis: he was a great gentleman.
Bill Carere
That is very sad. Chuck was the guy you wanted on your team, not on the other team. I have never seen anyone so fast in a pair of jeans at practice. In fact I have never seen anyone else practise in a pair of jeans. At his age, Chuck was amazing, he was a lion on the field and a lamb off the field. Hard to find a better teammate. He will be missed.
Andrew Jackson
Ah, Chuckles!! What does one say about a youngster with a name like that who comes to practice in blue jeans. You say Thank You!! Just knowing him made your life better! What a treasure.
Jim Pringle
Yes, very sad news indeed. Chuck always made the opposition aware of his presence. All the best to his family.
Derek Sturko
When Chuck put on his superman outfit (his jeans) no one was faster. I picked up Chuck quite often for practice. During our short conversations on our way, I was always taken aback by how he was the ultimate gentleman. Of course, I was glad he was on my team. All the best, Chuck. Ride your bike. So glad I met you on and off the field!
Bob Unwin
Chuck was a warrior in the field.
Alberto Callo
As others have mentioned, on the pitch Chuck was fiercely competitive and would protect anyone he befriended. Off the pitch he was quiet and willing to share his life experiences with you. June and I had the pleasure to talk to Chuck and Carole a few times, and learned he was always willing to help others whether via search and rescue on the water, or being a foster parent. You will be missed by many Chuck. Rest In Peace.
Bruce Perry