Noriko Aoi is a middle-aged woman of average height and build with long black hair, hazel brown eyes, and red-rimmed glasses. She raised her sons, Ashito and Shun, as a single mother in Ehime Prefecture while managing the family store under significant financial constraints. Her early life involved hardship after becoming pregnant with Shun at age 14 or 15 and facing social stigma, shaping her reserved and resilient personality. She rarely shows vulnerability and initially hesitated to support her sons' athletic pursuits due to costs, though she secretly saved money for their futures. Financially strained, Noriko prioritized her children's education and well-being, discouraging them from worrying about money. Her relationship with Ashito remains complex and tense, particularly after witnessing his disqualification from a crucial tournament for violent conduct. She struggles to express affection directly, avoiding him after his acceptance to Tokyo City Esperion FC. After muttering, "Well, it looks like football has snatched you for good," she regretted her words upon overhearing Ashito vow to become a professional player to support her. This prompted her to contact Hana Ichijō for expense details, indirectly easing Ashito's concerns. When Ashito left for Tokyo, Noriko avoided seeing him off but wrote a letter admitting her difficulty with emotional conversations. She apologized for never buying proper football boots, acknowledged his determination, and affirmed her unwavering pride in him regardless of outcomes. Their communication challenges persisted, with Ashito avoiding contact during training, leading her to scream her wish for him to call into the sea. During the Funebashi match, she observed Ashito's emotional instability and red-card ejection, later trusting coach Tatsuya Fukuda's methods after recognizing how he broadened Ashito's perspective. She formally entrusted Ashito to Fukuda's care with a bow. In contrast, Noriko's relationship with Shun is calmer and more communicative. She supported his football aspirations after discovering his hidden invitation and learning of his genuine desire to play during a beach conversation. She initially declined the offer without consulting him due to his financial hesitations, but later assured him she would handle club arrangements, offended he considered using his savings. She openly discussed family issues with Shun, emphasizing his future over the store's needs. Noriko interacts warmly with others like Hana Ichijō, consulting her about expenses and comforting her during Ashito's match. She recognized Hana's feelings for Ashito and acknowledged her support. Her core belief holds that children should not bear financial burdens, and she consistently prioritizes her sons' dreams despite personal sacrifices.