When Tom played for the 3 RCR Royals he was asked how he got started in Soccer. He replied it was on a cow pasture where at five years old he scored his first goal on a cow manure stadium before a roaring crowd of three (people, not cows).

Tom registered with the Minor Soccer program and quickly established himself as an up and coming star. He also led the high school team to two Provincial titles in 1968 and 1970.

The National Challenge Cup was Tom's ultimate goal and in his five attempts to win it, the Laurentians were finalists twice. In Winnipeg, in 1976 he was brought in from the Royal Military College to add toughness and experience to the team. Jack Simms, coach, said that Tom's timing may be off for precision passing from the midfield, but his main role would be to mark the opposition out of their game.

Tom's best year in his career was in 1975. He had an outstanding year with the Laurentians, another outstanding National Challenge Cup tournament in Calgary, played with the Canadian National team against Ayr United of the Scottish First Division, and was one of 17 players selected for the Canadian Pan-Am team that traveled to Mexico playing against the Bahamas and Argentina. He was the only player selected east of Quebec.

Ben Lake, then President of the Newfoundland Soccer Association said of Tom, "I can't think of another player who deserves this tribute more than Tom. His dedication to the sport has earned him high praise from the players, fans, and officials of the game."

Gus Etchgary, then Vice President of the Canadian Soccer Association said of Tom, "He is not only one of the best soccer players in Canada, but one of the finest gentleman in the game today. His leadership qualities go far beyond the field of play."

The St. Lawrence Soccer Hall of Fame welcomes Tom Tarrant.