While with Jeffersons in 1924, Noonan became the team's head coach, serving as a player-coach. Prior to joining the NFL, Noonan played college football at the University of Notre Dame as well as Fordham College. Gerard had four sisters: Mary (Red Cross), Elisabeth (Actress/Real Estate), and film stars Molly O'Day (Hollywood Walk of Fame) and Sally O'Neil, who were well known in their era.