Joe “Tav” Tavalero
Boxing (1965-67)

Acker Gym was packed; the professional raised ring was spotlighted with the four main “ring” lights. As the combatants climed those three steps up into the square, one could feel the sheer energy surging from the wide-eyed masses engulfed in the darkness.

During the mid-1960s, Chico State was the place to be if you wanted to become a teacher and boxing was your passion. After playing football at Sacramento State, Joe transferred to Chico to study physical education. A true student-athlete, he approached both his studies and athletics in the same full-on manner.

In 1966 and 1967, Joe dominated the college boxing welterweight division. In his senior year, Joe was named Chico State’s “Outstanding Boxer”, California Collegiate “Boxer of the Year”, and Sports Illustrated featued him in “Faces in the Crowd” naming him “Collegiate Boxer of the Year” for 1966-67. During this time, “Joe Tav” thrilled the students and townspeople with his artistry of the sweet science, compiling an undefeated record.

Joe earned his master’s degree in education with an emphasis in counseling. In addition, Joe earned a degree in adaptive physical education and went on to a 35-year career in teaching and coaching. Recently retired, Joe has more time to spend with his wife Marsha and their children Aaron, Simon and Vanessa.