Scott Norton

Original notches up club double century
Stu Piddington 10/07/2015

When Scott Norton pulls on his boots this Saturday for his 200th senior game for Harlequins it will be a remarkable achievement Norton was one of the original Harlequins back in 1998, after the Zingari and Star rugby clubs combined. In his first year he played 14 games at halfback including winning the grand final. The 36-year-old has since played in another 10 grand finals, winning a further three. Not bad considering he also spent four years of his prime away in Ireland playing rugby. Norton said he had enjoyed every minute of playing for Harlequins and the environment. "I've got a pretty competitive attitude I guess." Norton said one of the highlights had to be semi and finals rugby. "It sucks to lose but some players never get to play in finals." Norton said it was harder to keep fit as he got older, but the love of playing kept him going.

Even when his closest mates hung up their boots Norton still had the drive to keep going. The inside back said he jumped at the chance to play one final year. "I've got a new daughter Louisa but my wife encouraged me to play." Harlequins coach Craig Miller said a key for Norton's longevity in the game was he retained the same drive and determination as when he started. "He a professional, with real leadership and commitment." Head coach Jason Williamson said Norton embodied what a great club man was. "He was one of the first guys I rang when I got the job and he said he'd love to have another crack." Wiliamson said Norton was also a very clever player with a cool head. "His option taking is good, he nevers gets in a situation he can't get out of." Williamson said Norton was a quiet leader, great mentor to young players and had a wonderful relationship with the Tongan boys in the team. "Scotty is the sort of guy every team needs." He will only be the third Harlequin to crack 200 games behind his good mates Craig Miller (229) and Eric Smith (202). When Chris Gard retired Norton took over the goal kicking duties and has notched up 1703 points. Norton said he didn't mind the pressure of kicking and actually enjoyed the challenge. "I'm getting a bit older not so many are going over." Norton said it will definitely be his last season and would dearly love to go out with another title. "I'll miss the boys and the rugby but not so much the cold nights practising." Showing his value Norton also played 73 games for South Canterbury between 1998 and 2013, scoring 265 points

Class act Norton calls time
12/08/2014 - Timaru Herald
One of South Canterbury's most passionate players, Scott Norton, is retiring after 12 seasons with the "green and blacks".
The 36-year-old inside back has suffered several injuries during the club season and has finally hung up the boots as his body told him it was time to give it away.
Norton was always a quiet guy but a very astute tactician and organiser, something that was always highly valued by his team-mates and coaches.
He debuted for South Canterbury as a replacement in 1998 and scored a try in his first start against Horowhenua Kapiti.
Norton finished playing with 73 games, scoring 265 points.
His statistics would have been better but he opted to spend four seasons in Ireland with Kilkenny.
Norton said he loved pulling on the green and black jersey.
"I've loved it, it has been awesome, I loved every minute playing for South Canterbury. It is always good to step up and test yourself."
Norton said he never minded playing at nine or 10.
"I was probably a better halfback but as long as I got out on the field I was happy. I'd still like to be out there, the mind is willing but not so much the body.
"I would rather make the decision than be dropped.
"When he returned from Ireland he had no intentions to return to representative rugby but was persuaded by then coach Barry Fairbrother.
"I'm pleased he did, I discovered the real passion of playing for South Canterbury.
"Norton said there had been many highlights over the years including captaining the side in 2011 and making the New Zealand Heartland team the same year.
Going close to making the Meads Cup final in 2009 was bitter sweet.
"We played really well but lost in the last minute and you always want to get the main prize.
"He would like to remain involved in rugby in some way.
Norton thinks the 2014 South Canterbury roster is good enough but many need to be fitter.
"That is not the coaches fault, players need to take responsibility.
"Norton is no real fan of loan players, unless they are clearly superior to those who play locally in club rugby. "It is a shame the competition has them." As for the best player Norton has played alongside, he named loose forward Eric Smith.
"I might be biased, but he was always superbly fit and gave every game 100 per cent.
"Norton said there were many good memories he would leave with, on and off the field.
"Over the last four years there has been a really good culture in the team, I've enjoyed it.
"South Canterbury coach Chester Scott had high praise for the Norton.
"Scott is one of those guys you love to have in your group. He has a lot of knowledge and a very good rugby brain.
"Also over the years he always had the respect of his peers which speaks volumes."