Aiden Noto Shines in Lincoln-Way Central Football Victory

Aiden Noto: Following in Family Footsteps

Lincoln-Way Central’s Aiden Noto has long enjoyed strong football role models. Most recently, he admired senior running backs Luke Tingley and Justin Cobbs. However, Noto’s enduring mentor is his older brother, Anthony, a former star running back for the Knights, now playing for Illinois Wesleyan. According to Noto, “He’s my big brother. He shows me the way for everything. I just want to be like him.” With these inspirations guiding him, Aiden is stepping up to continue the family legacy in the Knights’ backfield.

Key Performance in Knights’ Victory

Aiden Noto seized his moment on Saturday in New Lenox, rushing for 98 yards and delivering a crucial touchdown in Lincoln-Way Central’s 21-13 win over Lutheran North from Missouri. Austin Buerck added to the effort with 86 yards and two touchdowns on 13 carries for the Knights, now (3-1). Quarterback Gavin Ciesiun showed precision by completing 9 of 12 passes for 116 yards. On the defensive side, Alex Harper and Colin Slaney each contributed a sack.

The decisive 11-play, 80-yard drive featured Noto’s 10-yard touchdown run, providing the Knights a 21-13 lead with 5:25 remaining. Ciesiun expressed confidence in Noto, recognizing his hardworking nature, stating: “Aiden’s been working hard. He’s not the biggest guy, but he’s a hard worker and he’s not afraid to run the ball hard.”

Longstanding Preparation and Development

Noto has built up to such opportunities since he began playing with the Junior Knights in third grade, with many days spent training alongside his brother. “Anthony took me to practice, running drills,” Noto recalled. His patience paid off when learning from seniors Tingley and Cobbs last season. “They taught me a lot,” he said. Now a senior himself, Noto is demonstrating leadership to the younger Knights.

Stepping Up in Challenging Moments

During the game’s second half, after Buerck suffered an apparent injury, Noto delivered as the team’s main running back. “I’m always ready for whatever they need me to do,” he affirmed. At 5-foot-9 and 165 pounds, Noto’s wrestling background contributes, lending him a competitive edge on the football field. “Wrestling gave me that edge,” Noto noted. “It’s all about mentality.”

Coach’s Perspective on Aiden Noto

Lincoln-Way Central coach Dave Woodburn sees Noto’s attitude as part of his family’s legacy. “Aiden pops into situations wherever we need him,” Woodburn said. “He was asked to carry the load on Saturday, and he did. He’s earned it. He works hard and is always a team player. That’s the Noto way, and I’m proud of them.”