Ross Norton
Wheelchair Basketball Athlete- Inducted 2025
Ross Norton, born in Calgary, Alberta, is a celebrated figure in the world of wheelchair basketball. Diagnosed with transverse myelitis, an inflammation of the spinal cord, during his adolescence, Ross did not let this challenge deter his passion for sports. Introduced to wheelchair basketball by his physiotherapist in 1989 at the age of 14, he quickly embraced the sport and began a journey that would see him rise to the pinnacle of athletic achievement.
Ross became a regular player with local club teams and represented Alberta at the Canada Games and national championships. His exceptional talent and dedication led to his selection for the Canadian Senior Men's National Team in 1999. Over nearly a decade with Team Canada, Ross amassed an impressive list of achievements:
- Paralympic Games:
- Gold Medalist at the 2000 Sydney Paralympic Games
- Gold Medalist at the 2004 Athens Paralympic Games
- Silver Medalist at the 2008 Beijing Paralympic Games
- World Championships:
- Gold Medalist at the 2006 World Championships in Amsterdam
- Bronze Medalist at the 2002 World Championships in Kitakyushu, Japan
- Domestic Achievements:
- Named MVP at the 2000 CWBL Open Championship
- Led the Alberta Northern Lights to become the first Canadian team to win the National Wheelchair Basketball Association (NWBA) championship in the United States
- Inducted into the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame in 2008 as a member of the Alberta Northern Lights
After retiring from international competition in 2008, Ross dedicated himself to coaching and developing the next generation of athletes. He became the head coach of his former team, the Alberta Northern Lights, in 2010. His coaching career also includes:
- Head Coach of the Canadian Women's U25 National Team in 2014
- Assistant Coach for Team Alberta at the Canada Winter Games, securing medals in 2015 (bronze), 2019 (gold), and 2023 (silver)
Beyond the court, Ross has been instrumental in promoting para sports across Alberta. He helped establish the Edmonton Adaptive Sports Association and the Edmonton Wheelchair Tennis Club. His commitment to the sport extends to administrative roles, serving on the Wheelchair Basketball Canada Domestic Committee.
Ross Norton's legacy is one of excellence, leadership, and dedication. His impact on wheelchair basketball and para sports is profound, inspiring athletes and enhancing the sporting community in Alberta and Canada. He was inducted in 2008 with the Alberta Northern Lights Basketball Team.
