Tributes to a Legend

Colleagues and players pay tribute to the retiring Bill Norris.

Bill Norris is a man that with his hands could heal your body, but with his spirit, generosity and strength could heal the scars left on your soul from defeat and failure…a priceless gift to all athletes. He touched me and countless others in ways he will never know. 
– Andre Agassi, former World No. 1

I, like so many individuals, are indebted to Bill for the help he has given us. In addition to his work as a physiotherapist working directly with the players, Bill has mentored many leading sports medicine professionals who have worked in the game of tennis and continue to work in the game performing research, medical care and other athlete services for its players. His unselfish gift of education and training have provided an extensive network of sports medicine providers who recognize his important mentorship as a cornerstone to their involvement in the sport of tennis and facilitated their career development. 
– Todd S. Ellenbecker, ATP Director of Sports Medicine

During the last few years as one of the Medical Directors I have seen Bill in an even different light not only that wonderful physiotherapist, mentor and player confidant but a true ambassador of our sport. I have turned to him many times for his wise counsel and good judgment. It has been a rare privilege to have served with him all these years and I am fortunate enough to call him a very close friend. – David Dines, M.D.

Bill loved his job and put his heart and soul into his work. He is truly a unique individual who will be sorely missed by the ATP organization, the players, the medical staff and the many people around the world that have come to know him through their association with professional tennis. 
– Gary Windler, M.D. Co-Medical Director, ATP

I remember watching Roland Garros on French television and hearing of Bill Norris going on court when one of the guys was in pain. It was an honor to meet him, to be with him. He even gave advice to Roger Federer on the way to tighten his head band, which was funny because Roger was listening. – Hugo Gravil, ATP Physiotherapist

Bill made it his job to get to know everyone at a tournament. He was the smiling face of the ATP and would talk to anyone from the tournament director down to the cleaner. He was everyone's friend at every tournament. 
– Paul Ness, ATP Physiotherapist

Bill Norris was always there. Bill is a legend. He started the whole thing. Pro tennis was a baby and he kind of initiated the whole treatment scenario. He was the pioneer for on court treatment. His attitude towards life and towards players. He was a great. Always available. 
– Per Bastholt, former ATP Physiotherapist

Bill Norris cares about each and every individual and will recall your name even after months of not seeing you. Medical personnel around the globe always ask about him as he is a favorite on the ATP circuit. If there is one individual that has made a difference in this world simply by being a nice person, it is Bill. I will miss working with him. God bless. – Clay Sniteman, ATP Physiotherapist