Charest was an outstanding tennis player at SMU for four seasons from 1976-79. As a freshman, he compiled a 10-1 singles record and a 3-2 mark in doubles. In his senior year, he was 9-1 in singles and 5-4 in doubles. During his four years with the SMU tennis program, the Corsairs were 23-16-1. Charest is well known in area tennis circles as one of the top men's players and teachers of the sport. Charest remains active as a teacher, player and coach with the Dartmouth High School girl's tennis team.