Billy Norton

 

Elected : USSSA New York Hall Of Fame in 2016
Inducted : March 2017, Syracuse, NY
 

Fate is quirky. In 1984 and 20 years old, Bill was recently discharged from the Navy, and he answered an ad in the local newspaper.  It was submitted by nearby softball enthusiast Dan Johnson. His purpose was to recruit players for the A-Classic leagues in both Liverpool and Syracuse, Ultimately, this included tournaments that consumed many weekends.

Dan was a stranger at first, but became a close friend and mentor. His passion, desire, awareness, and ability to organize a competitive and quality group of players, made Billys job on the field an easy one. As a player, Billy prefers to be rememberd as someone who demonstrated sportsmanship along with a relentless effort to do whatever was within his means to make a difference in the outcome of a game..naturally...one game at a time.

Personal accolates pale in coparison as Billy reflects on the numerous league and tournament team championships that he was fortunate to be part of.  Collectively, these are a small component when he considers all the friends, acquaintances, relationships, and opportunities he has accumulated as a result of his time spent in the softball world. He has so many wonderful memories and he is incredibly appreciative for the influence it has had on his life. In the eyes of many it’s ‘just a game”. To Billy , honestly, it means so much more.  He has moved on and found other interests, but “it” will always be a part of him..all because he answered an ad in the local Sunday paper. 

Thank you Dan, rest in peace, but continue to look down and help with my golf game as needed.  I appreciate it.  Much love to All involved in my life, Billy Norton.