John Norwig: Sports Medicine Legend Is a Steeler for Life
For 32 years, John Norwig served as the head athletic trainer for the Pittsburgh Steelers, a role that earned him a reputation as one of the most respected figures in sports medicine. His career spanned four decades and earned him three Super Bowl rings. Norwig announced his retirement in 2023, but he continues to symbolize dedication, commitment, and excellence for the black and gold.
His Journey Into Sports Medicine
Norwig’s journey into sports medicine started at Penn State, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in health and physical education and later earned his master’s in health education. His first role as an athletic trainer was at Bellefonte High School before returning to Penn State to serve six years as an assistant athletic trainer and health education instructor. He would then go on to help with the San Francisco 49ers training camp and become the head athletic trainer at Vanderbilt University.
Finally, in 1991, he found his home as the head athletic trainer with the Pittsburgh Steelers. He would remain with the Steelers for the rest of his career, working tirelessly to establish one of the most respected training programs in the NFL. During his time with the Steelers, Norwig has been honored with dozens of awards and accolades, including:
- Most Distinguished Athletic Trainer Award from the National Athletic Trainers’ Association
- Professional Football Athletic Training Staff of the Year by the Professional Athletic Training Society (PFATS)
- Pennsylvania Athletic Trainers Hall of Fame Inductee
- Fain-Cain Memorial Award
John is also a member of the American College of Sports Medicine, the American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine, the Pennsylvania Athletic Trainers’ Society, and the National Athletic Trainers Association. He’s served as the president of the Professional Football Athletic Trainers’ Society and was named a Penn State alumni fellow for his outstanding professional accomplishments.
An Enduring Legacy of Care
During his 32 seasons with the Steelers, Norwig worked with three head coaches through nearly 600 games and four Super Bowls. When he announced his retirement, Steelers president Art Rooney II called him “a consummate professional… He handled himself the way you would hope everyone on staff conducts himself. He’s as good as it gets… We’re going to miss him.”
After announcing his retirement, Norwig wrote a heartfelt letter of thanks to his team and the Steeler community. He expressed gratitude to the Rooneys and appreciation for the entire medical team working with the players. His commitment to the team has left a lasting impact that will continue to influence the Steelers’ training program for years.
Onto a Well-Deserved Retirement
Norwig lives in Pittsburgh with his wife, Emily. He said he has no plans to leave the community where they raised three children, daughter Erin and sons Nicholas and Luke. He said he’ll miss the crowd’s roar as the team runs out onto the home field, but Norwig is a Steeler for life. You’ll still spot him in the stands, cheering on his beloved team and waving his Terrible Towel.
Welcome Aboard, John Norwig!
The Legends of Pittsburgh Vacation is excited to welcome John Norwig to our 2026 lineup!
