LA MIRADA --- We are deeply grieved for the passing of Charlie Sarver. He heavily impacted Biola Athletics for many years as the head baseball coach and athletic director. Coach Sarver passed away on August 24.


Sarver was at the helm of the Biola baseball team for 24 years from 1967-1990. He was a family man, who prioritized the growth and development of student-athletes. He also served the department by leading as the Biola Athletics Director for many years.



"I am quite certain there was no one as unique or more dedicated to the overall growth and development of the student-athletes who played for him than Charlie Sarver. He cared about us, and he taught us well," wrote Charlie Atkinson, former student-athlete under Sarver.


Through 24 seasons, Coach Sarver accumulated 414 wins with 20 wins in seven seasons. He was named NAIA District III Coach of the Year two times in a row in 1969 and 1970. The baseball squad earned seven trips to the district playoffs as well during his tenure.



Coach Sarver's impact went beyond Biola, as he was named the President of the NAIA Baseball Coaches Committee. He also taught physical education courses in addition to his baseball coaching duties.


Prior to joining Biola, Sarver was a distinguished multi-sport athlete. He was a star running back for UC Berkeley, becoming one of the leading rushers in the nation, while leading the Golden Bears to the Rose Bowl in 1949. While carrying the rock for UC Berkeley, Sarver was bestowed the Ken Cotton award, which was given to the player displaying the most courage.


He would go on to sign with the Dodgers after his collegiate career and hit .299 in his first season in the minors. Unfortunately, a knee injury would derail his career and he would shift his focus to coaching.


Coach Sarver's competitive spirit carried on into retirement as he took on the challenge of playing softball. He played until he was 85 years old and was inducted into the Senior Softball Hall of Fame in 2012.


Through the wealth of success heralded by Charlie Sarver, the most common thread from the people who knew him was, he was a helpful, kind, and caring man. From student-athletes coached by Sarver to awards given to him as a student-athlete himself and to his days playing senior softball, everyone saw a man dedicated to serving and leading others.



"Charlie was one the nicest men I've ever met," said Dr. Dave Holmquist. "I always enjoyed seeing him. He was a great Christian man who was always kind, fun, and cared about people."


The nearest local service will be in Bakersfield on Saturday, October 21st at 10:30 a.m. at Hodel's Country Dining. The primary memorial service will be in Twin Falls, Idaho on September 30.