Central State University Athletics

Charles Hope was part of a dominant Central State Marauder line that powered the CSU offense from 1988 through the 1991 season.

While playing at William Penn High School in New Castle, Delaware, Hope led his team to a Div. I state title in 1987 while being selected to the Delaware All-State First Team as an offensive tackle and nose guard. In addition, he also earned All-State honors and was a state champion in wrestling.

Standing at 6'4 and weighing 275 pounds, Hope caught the eye of CSU Hall of Fame coach Billy Joe, who offered Hope a full scholarship to come to Wilberforce, Ohio to suit up for the Marauders.

Hope lived up to Joe's expectations, earning consistent playing time on both sides of the ball as a freshman. He eventually settled in at the guard position, consistently grading out by coaches and scouts in the mid-90s. With Hope as a part of the offensive line, CSU set a new NAIA scoring record of 594 points. In 1990, the offense was the best in the NAIA with an average of 492 yards per game while scoring 54.75 points per contest. On their way to the 1990 NAIA national title, CSU was the only team ranked among the top ten in rushing (No. 6 – 230 yds/game) and passing (No. 6 – 262 yds/game). Behind the powerful play of the offensive line, CSU dominated in the 1990 NAIA playoffs. In three games, CSU's offense totaled 426 rushing yards, 925 passing yards and 15 touchdowns.

For his outstanding play on the line, Hope was named A Sheridan Black College All-American in 1990 and 1991.

Hope went on to play on the professional level with a stint on the Miami Dolphins in 1992 and 1993 followed by two and a half seasons with the Green Bay Packers. His last season was spent playing for NFL Europe's Frankfurt Galaxy.

After his playing days concluded, Hope returned to Delaware where he has enjoyed a 20+ career as a youth counselor, coach and high school administrator. Hope his degree in industrial technology and currently works at his William Penn – his high school alma mater.