Alex Mehnert is among a group of young defensemen that has taken on significantly larger roles for Air Force this season.

The Minnesota product leads the team with a plus-6 and has added five assists through 12 games while playing in every situation for the Falcons.

The sophomore came to the Academy after playing in both the NAHL and USHL, and he needed every bit of that preparation when he was forced into the Falcons’ lineup as a freshman due to a wave of injuries. Mehnert fared well, finishing last season as a plus player and chipping in six points in 15 games.

He took some time recently to speak with the Flight Path about why he wanted to come to the Academy and what he hopes to do in the future, among other topics.

Your role has changed from last season because the program graduated four defensemen who played a lot of minutes. How’s that transition gone?

It’s exciting. The opportunity comes and you have to take it by the reins and make the most of it. I’m trying to do my best every day and keep my spot in the lineup and contribute to the team’s success.

What sorts of things did you do in the offseason to prepare for a larger role this season?

Just working and trying to get bigger and stronger, getting my conditioning up, so I can be stronger on the puck and just have more overall strength in my game so I can see the ice better and contribute on the scoresheet.

Is it easier in Year 2 at the Academy?

Freshman year you have a lot of stresses and a lot is being demanded of you. Your sophomore year it tapers off, you’re a front-line supervisor and watching over the freshman directly. It’s a lot less stress outside of the rink, so when you get to the rink you can focus more.

Did you have any family with a military background?

No one. I’m the first.

What was the appeal of the Academy?

I came here to be a pilot. I wanted to play Division I hockey, have a career outside of the rink and fly some planes. It’s the best opportunity I had.

Do you have a favorite trip with the team?

I really enjoy the Canisius trip, going to Buffalo, New York, and spending time in downtown. It’s a nice arena, nice hotel and nice town. Good food, too. It’s really convenient.

Do you have favorite memory at the Academy?

Winning the conference championship and going to the NCAA Tournament was a great time. We had a lot of fun.

What is it about this team that lends itself to it finishing so well year after year?

We just come to the rink every day and spend a lot of days on the road together, being together all the time. As the year progresses, everyone just becomes tighter and tighter friends.

What is a trick of the trade you would tell a young defenseman?

Keep your head up and always look to make the next pass. Don’t let someone get around you. Keep your eye on their chest. … Shoot to score.

Are you particular about any of your gear?

I’m not too particular but I always go left to right. Left shin pad to right shin pad, left skate to right skate … always left to right.

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

I did. The Boston Bruins, even though I’m from Minnesota, and (defenseman) Torey Krug. I like the way he plays.

Who were some of your hockey influences?

I grew up in a small town in Minnesota but we had a lot of guys come out of our high school and go to the NHL. There was a defenseman named Brian Lee who went to the NHL. He was a good influence on me.

Are there are other members of your family who play hockey?

No, not anyone. My dad didn’t play any sports. My mom was a cheerleader. That was about all.

If you had a teammate who was running for office, who would get your vote?

I think I would pick, oh boy that’s a tough one. I think I would pick Pierce Pluemer. He’s level headed. He thinks through everything pretty well. He usually makes the right decisions.

What is the breakfast of champions?

I’m a big French toast guy. Canadian bacon and scrambled eggs would be part of it.

What are you thankful for?

Family and friends, and then being able to go to a great school like this and continue to play hockey.

©First Line Editorial 2017-18