Austin Schwartz has been one of Air Force’s most noticeable players this season. An elite skater, the Parker, Colo., native uses his speed to create chances for the Falcons and negate them for opponents.

The difference between past campaigns and this one is that Schwartz is finishing more of the chances. His seven goals and 14 points are career highs with four regular-season games plus playoffs to go.

The junior forward took time this week to speak with AFAFlightPath.com founder Chris Bayee.

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What is the mood around the team heading into this weekend’s games at first-place RIT?

Everyone is really excited, especially after how we played on Saturday night vs. Sacred Heart (a 2-0 win to snap a four-game slump). That was a huge confidence boost. They’re the second-place team. Domination like that brings confidence and shows the league we’re not one to be messed with.

What has made the difference in your game this season?

Building more confidence within myself. I’m playing with really good guys, getting more bounces toward the net. I don’t get the bounces some other natural goal-scorers get. Guys can help me, be an outlet for me and me for them.

How did you develop your game, particularly your speed, growing up?

When I was younger, and I’ve always been a smaller guy, I was told I needed to get my first three steps faster. I worked out with a really good strength coach in Denver and with skating coaches. Working on those first three steps, building speed is starting to pay off. Now I create separation and create open lanes with them.

When did you start playing hockey?

I first put on skates at two and a half. My dad played men’s league. I wanted a pair of skates. I just fell in love with the game. I grew up playing for Arapahoe Warriors. I played every sport and tried to figure out my niche. Eventually, I moved over to Thunderbirds. I fell in love with the game, the process and the camaraderie. Getting to play in Nationals in Alaska when I was 14 was great. I played 16s with Angelo Ricci, who is a skills coach for the Philadelphia Flyers now. I was fortunate to play in NAHL with the Bismarck Bobcats. I loved every minute. I had great billets and roommates. Played with Jacob Marti there. I was able to grow into my own person, and it’s a big reason why I am who I am.

What are some of your favorite hockey memories?

That Army series my freshman year, when we swept them in the first round of the playoffs. In the first game, I had an assist in overtime on Blake Bride’s winning goal and a game-tying goal in the second game. My grandfather was in the stands with my parents and sister. That was really, really special to me

Nationals was special, too. My U15 year was really special. I got to be the go-to guy. I had my best buddies around. It was the most fun I had until juniors and the Academy.

Air Force always seems to save its best for Army, especially at Tate Rink. Why is that?

There is something about that series. CC and Denver are cool because they’re close. A series like West Point, it’s two teams fighting for the same side when we graduate. Guys want to give it their very best. Guys want to show who’s the best service academy.

What influenced you to play at Air Force?

My grandfather retired as a captain in the Navy. He was an E2 Hawkeye pilot. I had a passion for flying when I was younger. My dream was to play college hockey in Colorado, whether Denver, CC or Air Force. When I came to Air Force when I was younger, I loved it. Being able to serve was the cherry on top. The Whole time here I’ve been excited to start my military career and serve my country. You get the best education, plus I can be close to home and have my family support me. My squadmates come over to my house (in Parker) and decompress from school. Being close to home makes this an even more special location. I’ve come to cherish the whole experience.

What do you hope to do going forward in the Air Force?

I just put in for jobs this past weekend. I listed pilot first. That would be something I’d love. Once you fly in an F-16 and your tail’s on fire, it stays with you. I want to do it again. I love the mission of flying.

Did you have a favorite player and/or team growing up?

I grew up watching the Avs. From a very young age, I used to go to Avs games and DU games. Ryan O’Reilly was my favorite player. He’s just a great 200-foot player and fun to watch. I loved Cody McLeod. I was a stick kid for the Avs, and every single time I’d win it I’d be with Cody McLeod. I loved watching him fight. He was a big hitter and fighter. Like every kid my age, you watched Sidney Crosby, Alexander Ovechkin, Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews. I tried to find a few traits from each to try to add to my game.

Do you have any hobbies outside of hockey?

I love to golf. My dad taught me when I was younger. When I went to juniors I got into more. The past few years, I’ve enjoyed playing with the guys here when we can get out to the Eisenhower course during a break or on a weekend. I enjoy mountain biking, too. I found a new passion for that during Covid. Anything that gets me outside, like fishing or hiking. I like all of it.

Do you have any teammates with notable hidden talents?

Have you ever seen a Kendama? (Freshman goalie) Dom Wasik is pretty unbelievable. He’s teaching everyone some skill tricks on that. … Holt Oliphant can give you any sports fact from any time. He’s incredible. Anyone can ask him any sports question, and he’ll know the answer.

Who is (or are) the team’s comedians?

Maiszon Balboa is one of the funniest guys, and he’s also the locker room DJ. He’s great at it. Nate Horn is funny, too. The whole freshman class is really funny, too. They’re always cracking jokes at the front of the bus. We have a good mixture to keep the mood light.

©First Line Editorial 2024