QUINTIN JAMES
Special to The Leader
Rich Norton is a classic example of a guy trying to lead his alma mater back to a championship. Norton graduated from Fredonia in 1987 and has spent 30 years teaching different levels of organized basketball. His most recent coaching job was as head coach in the Silver Creek school district for the last nine years, during which time he won over 70 games. Now, as the assistant coach for the Fredonia women’s basketball team, he’s ready for the challenge of building this program up again.
Norton grew up and went to college in Fredonia, so it is anticipated that he will be a great recruiter, able to really help get new talent in to create some wins for Fredonia. He also knows a lot of people nearby and can, therefore, be a big asset in persuading players to commit to Fredonia.
When asked about why he chose to return to Fredonia, Norton said he coached at a local high school, but his heart was always at Fredonia. He’s glad he returned to the program because he grew up here, and it was a great fit for him.
Norton has been coaching basketball for 30 years, so his wisdom and experience with the game can rub off on the players and coaches and turn them into better players and people.
The season hasn’t started out perfect for the Blue Devils, but Norton is very optimistic about the season and the upcoming seasons. He said it’s tough to replace two thousand point scorers, but they know they’ll have growing pains, and the goal is to make the playoffs. The team is going in the right direction, and all the early season struggles will lead to success in the long run. Norton said that different roles for different players have the Blue Devils adjusting and trying to succeed.
When asked about some things to look out for, Norton mentioned starting the SUNYAC part of their schedule and bringing in potential new recruits. Norton said this year should be a good year for recruits, as a lot of good talent is interested in joining the Blue Devils. He wants to sign a couple of players by New Year’s Eve and get a good recruiting class in place.
Norton’s goals this season are to make the playoffs, but if that doesn’t happen, then he aims to have the team be competitive and have the players improve in all areas of their games. He wants to help Coach McDonald build a good program and have a foundation in place to have Fredonia be a force in the women’s division for years to come.
Norton’s Fredonia ties will do nothing but help the team and the school. His wisdom and knowledge will do wonders for the young Blue Devils, and he will be an important piece in Fredonia’s success down the road.