The retired military veteran was pulled out of the crowd and into the spotlight recently as a highlight of the annual Demon Legends Dinner bringing together many loyal supporters of Northwestern State athletics at the Horseshoe Casino and Hotel’s Riverdome. Hicks was presented the 2015 Joe Delaney Distinguished Supporter Award.
“A long-time supporter, Norm has continued to be more involved with our department, aiding our efforts in countless ways,” said associate athletic director Adam Jonson, executive director of the Demons Unlimited Fund. “He does much more than just provide financial support by assisting several sports in their fundraising efforts and displaying an extraordinary amount of passion for NSU.”
A few years back, Hicks shared the KZBL Radio “Biggest Demon Fan Award” with local educator Michael Landry, presented during the NSU basketball season. It’s unusual to scan the crowd at any home athletic competition and not find Hicks in some purple gear.
He’s also front-and-center helping with fundraisers, cookouts and other endeavors – including providing temporary housing at times for incoming coaches and staff, notably graduate assistants while they search for more permanent accommodations.
“I was very surprised, as I told Adam when I was presented with the award, because I think there are many other more deserving people,” said Hicks. “I’ve grown to have a great relationship with many of the coaches and staff members, and I’m pretty sure the blood in my veins is Demon purple. This is an awesome honor – it means a lot to me.”
Hicks has become especially close friends with third-year Demon head football coach Jay Thomas.
“Big Norm, he’s the best,” said Thomas. “He’s become like part of our staff, that’s how helpful he’s been. The bigger thing is he’s an even better friend to all of us, than he is a supporter, and he’s awesome in that regard. We enjoy him being part of our Demon family and we really love the guy.”
