Every Air Force hockey player looks forward to a series against Army West Point, but for sophomore Shawn Knowlton, the excitement level is even higher.

That’s because the Falcons forward spent three years around the Black Knights while his father Jim, a former Air Force athletic director, served as Army’s deputy athletic director from 2003-06.

Additionally, Shawn Knowlton didn’t have the opportunity to participate in either the regular-season series against the Black Knights at Cadet Arena or the compelling playoff series at Tate Rink because he was rehabbing a preseason shoulder injury. So to say he’s excited about this weekend’s games at West Point might be the understatement of the year.

Shawn graciously took some time this week to speak with AFAFlightPath.com about this and many other topics.

Your family has quite a few connections to military academies, but you’re a bit of an outlier in that you came to Air Force to play hockey. Can you tell us more about your family’s background?

My dad went to West Point (and played hockey for the Black Knights), and I’ve had multiple uncles attend West Point. I ended up living there for three years when I was growing up when my dad worked there. Growing up with the Army background I was always on the other side, but it’s good to be on this side now. (This weekend’s series) is exciting. We used to sponsor some kids on the team, so I got a feel for their program through that.

You weren’t able to play in the Army-Air Force series last season because of an injury, so how much more excited are you for this weekend?

It will be a lot of fun and hopefully we can come away with four big points (in Atlantic Hockey). … I expect a lot of energy from both teams. There is a lot of respect, but it always is an all-out war. … I’m very excited. I can’t wait. I grew up on West Point’s campus and to be in the rivalry first hand will be very special.

Any good man, military or otherwise, knows a good breakfast is crucial, so what is the breakfast of champions?

I would say an omelette. That’s my go-to. Ham and cheese, and ketchup’s a necessity.

Did you have a favorite team or player growing up?

My dad grew up in Boston. I’ve always been all Boston. I really like (Bruins forward) Brad Marchand. There is a lot of energy and spirit to his game and he has some scoring ability.

Some of his spirit comes out in strange ways …

Don’t worry, I won’t be licking any opponents.

Halloween is Wednesday. Did you have a favorite costume growing up?

Being a hockey player. I’d throw on a hockey jersey and helmet and roller blades. I’d be able to beat everyone to the door and hopefully get the best candy.

Speaking of, what is the best Halloween candy?

Kit Kats.

Great call. Do those ever find their way into the training regimen?

Once in a while, but you can’t have too many of those here.

If I were to pick out one hockey attribute of yours that jumps out to me, I’d have to say it’s your skating. How did you develop that part of your game?

Growing up with four older brothers, I was always trying to get under their skin and then get away from them. I developed quick-twitch muscles trying to survive. They all played hockey and I learned from them; they were all older and better players. I had to adapt to playing at that level. The second oldest, Pat, played at Sacred Heart. Chris played at Denver for four years. And Mark is a senior at Trinity College.

Are there any team comedians we should keep an eye out for?

One of the biggest is Brady Tomlak, he’s always got something to say and it’s almost always pretty funny. He keeps it light.

Are you particular about any of your gear?

Not really. I don’t have any superstitious. I just free lance. If I grab my left shin pad first or my right and put it on it doesn’t matter.

Air Force continues to raise the bar with sweet looking uniforms these past few years. Do you have a favorite?

I really like the gray ones we rolled out this year. Everyone is used to the white and the blue. The gray added a little touch.

There is a big election coming up. Is there a Falcons player who might make a good president or congressman?

Matt Koch. He’s well rounded, has a good head on his shoulders. He doesn’t mind talking to people. … Matt’s got my vote.

If coach Serratore was a superhero, which one would he be?

Superman. That’s the first one that comes to mind. He can do it all.

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