Aiden Noto of Lincoln-Way Central has been shaped by strong football role models throughout his life. Last season, he admired senior running backs Luke Tingley and Justin Cobbs. However, his chief inspiration has always been his older brother, Anthony, a former Knights running back now playing for Illinois Wesleyan.
“That’s my big brother,” Noto said. “He shows me the way for everything. I just want to be like him.”
Aiden is seizing the chance to emulate his brother and excel in the Knights’ backfield. On Saturday afternoon in New Lenox, he rushed for 98 yards and scored a critical late touchdown, helping Lincoln-Way Central secure a 21-13 victory over Lutheran North from Missouri. Austin Buerck also contributed with 86 yards and two touchdowns on 13 carries for the Knights, whose record now stands at 3-1.
Quarterback Gavin Ciesiun completed 9 of 12 passes for 116 yards. On defense, Alex Harper and Colin Slaney each earned a sack. With a narrow 14-13 lead, the Knights executed an 11-play, 80-yard drive, culminating in Noto’s 10-yard touchdown run. This important play created a comfortable cushion with 5:25 remaining.
“Aiden’s been working hard,” Ciesiun remarked. “He might not be the biggest back, but he works hard and isn’t afraid to run the ball.”
Jonathan Moore’s 20-yard touchdown pass to Addison Reynolds and a 9-yard run kept Lutheran North, currently 0-3, in contention. Still, Noto showcased his years of preparation, beginning at third grade with the Junior Knights and continuing through endless training sessions with his brother.
“Anthony would always take me out to practice, run drills, do whatever we could to improve,” Noto shared.
In high school, Noto waited patiently for his chance, studying Tingley and Cobbs closely.
“I learned a lot from them. Two great dudes,” Noto said.
Now a senior, Noto guides the young Knights team. After Buerck left the game with an injury, Noto stepped up. Despite his 5-foot-9, 165-pound frame, he runs with the resilience of a wrestler, a sport he pursued until his freshman year.
“I love wrestling. It gave me the mental edge on the field. It’s all about mentality,” Noto explained.
Coach Dave Woodburn appreciates this family trait.
“Aiden has been reliable all year, stepping in where needed. He carried the load on Saturday and earned it. He works hard, is a team player, and meets every challenge,” Woodburn said. “That’s the Noto way. I’m proud of them.”
Aiden Noto continues to honor his family’s legacy through hard work and dedication at Lincoln-Way Central.
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