Noah Hetherington, a sophomore at Eastern High School holds down the line as both center and defensive end. Get to know Noah in this Q&A as he shares his experiences on and off the field.
Q: What are you looking forward to the most as a player and teammate for the 2025-26 football season?
A: Trying to restore our football team back into what it used to be.
Q: What do you like most about playing football?
A: The bond with your team going out there on game day.
Q: What’s your best moment you have experienced as a player or teammate on the football field?
A: Beating Sexton in 8th grade.
Q: What are your goals as a player and teammate for the 2025-26 football season?
A: Bring our football team back to its winning tradition.
Q: How much have you prepared for the football season, and what do you feel you have improved on to help reach team goals?
A: Went to all the summer workouts and practices.
Q: Tell us about your journey in football?
A: I started off at Sexton but got injured. During the offseason, I came to Eastern and played my 8th-grade year here, where we beat Sexton that same season. I continued playing last year, winning three games, and now I’m entering my 10th-grade year with hopes of competing more, becoming a better player, and helping build a stronger team.
Q: Talk to us about the love and dedication you have for your high school football team?
A: I have a lot of love and dedication. I love my school I know what the football team used to be back in the day, and I will give my all to get it back to that point.
Q: Tells us something your football coach has said to motivate you to play your best?
A: No matter how bad of a loss we have or how many losses we he has always been there for us, and he doesn’t quit on us no matter what.
Q: What is your favorite play you like to run on offense or defense?
A: I like playing guard and pulling on our run plays — the defense usually doesn’t expect it, and it sets up a really solid block.
Q: What goals have you set for yourself this season?
A: Win more games become more of a team.
Q: What’s the best part about playing with this team?
A: We never quit on each other we’re all like family no matter what.
Q: What’s your mindset going into a big game?
A: Play your hardest. If you have a bad play let it go, move on and do better next play. BEAT SEXTON!!!
Q: Do you have any pre-game rituals or traditions?
A: The team huddles. Coach gives us a clap and we sing are fight song.
Q: Can you tell us what it feels like to you when you’re out on your home field and the crowd is cheering so loud for your team?
A: There is no better feeling. You feel noticed, loved, motivated to give that crowd that is there our best for a win, and to go home happy.
Q: How excited are you about High School Football Friday Night Lights and running out on the field with your team?
A: So excited. There’s no better feeling being able to get to play in front of people and be with your team.
Q: What advice would you give to younger players just starting out?
A: Stay motivated. Don’t let hate get to you, put in the work for your school, your team and you’ll be alright.
