Vale Norman Taylor

The Hawks are deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of club great Norman Taylor. 

The powerful center in the number 42 jersey made a huge impact both on and off the court with dominating performances and as a crowd favourite of the Hawks faithful. 

Better known as ‘Stormin Norman’ during his three seasons and 67 games in the Illawarra he holds the Club record for points in a game with 54 in May 1990 against Eastside. 

A force in the post, Taylor averaged 29.9 points and 11.7 rebounds during his time with the Hawks, being awarded the Club’s MVP in ’89, ’90 and ’91 – a clean sweep for the three years he played at the Club. 

The tributes flowed for the Club icon as news of his passing broke. 

Club legend and former team mate Greg Hubbard said “Norman Taylor wasn’t just a great player, he was a great person.  He had a heart warming smile that reached out to all those who met him.  This Club and this community has just lost one of its favourite sons.  It is a truly sad time for all of us”. 

Chuck Harmison remembers Stormin Norman with great fondness.  “t is so sad to hear that we have lost another Hawk, Norm Taylor.  Norm was one of the all time genuine people, a truly warm and friendly man, as well as being one of the greatest players to ever pull on a Hawks singlet.  A fierce competitor on the court, Norm never backed down from a challenge, and despite being undersized for a big man, he was virtually unstoppable around the basket.  He left opposing centers in his wake with a blindingly quick first step and had such a soft touch around the basket.  Norm became an icon after his playing days, especially in the northern suburbs, and he always had time to chat to his many fans and friends.  I’m going to miss my old teammate dearly, he’s been taken from us far too early.” 

Club Co-Owner & President Dorry Kordahi said “It saddens all of us at the Hawks that we have lost a club great.  I remember watching Stormin’ Norman play when I was growing up.  He was always such a strong force on the court and scored at will.  He is recognised as one of the 12 greatest to have ever played for the club, and rightly so.  He leaves behind a legacy that will not be forgotten.  All of us at the Hawks offer our most sincere condolences to his family at this difficult time.”