Center Jake Marti is one of Air Force’s impact players, as in when he’s on the ice he’s likely to make a physical impact on the other team.

The hard-hitting center is the fulcrum on one of the Falcons’ energy lines with wingers Bennett Norlin and Lucas Coon.

He’s also one of eight Coloradoans on the Air Force roster. Jake graciously took time to answer a series of questions in The Flight Path’s latest installment of One-timers.

Given that you grew up relatively close to the Academy, was going to Air Force a long-standing goal for you?

It didn’t come on the radar as soon as you’d think even though I grew up knowing about Frank and the Academy. After my first year of juniors in Bismarck I came down to a showcase here. After that Frank and the coaches showed interest in me. Things moved pretty fast. (The showcase) was in June, and I committed at end of August. … I couldn’t pass up the opportunities – the academics, the friendships. It’s definitely a good opportunity – I can serve my country, get a great education, and play Division I hockey. I didn’t realize the magnitude of this place growing up. My favorite college team was DU. That was always a life-long dream. After learning more about this place, coming on my visit, I realized this was a great option. Everyone is part of something bigger than themselves. After my visit I thought it would be cool to be part of this.

Did you have any family ties to the military or to the Academy?

Not the Academy. I do have a cousin who went to the Naval Academy a few years before I came here.

Who or what were some of your hockey influences?

I grew up in California for my first 4-5 years. My dad’s best friend in California was Red Wings fan, that’s where I got that from. My dad played pick-up hockey in California, both roller pick-up and ice pick-up. I saw him playing roller and said I wanted to try. Eventually I moved to ice.

Where did you play in Colorado?

I was all over the place. I started at Littleton until 11s. Then I played that season with the Thunderbirds. Then I played U12 at DU and U13 at the Thunderbirds again. For U14 I was at Foothills, then I played for the RoughRiders from 15-18.

You have seven teammates from the state, did you ever cross paths with any of them?

I played with Schwartzie (sophomore Austin Schwartz) when we were younger and played with him for one season inBismarck. I played against (Maiszon) Balboa growing up.

What has your favorite trip or experience been at Air Force?

Every trip was fun. Leaving on Wednesday after class, spending five days just with the boys, hanging out, doing school  work and playing hockey. Nothing beats it. … The trip to Army was the most fun road trip during the playoffs. Going into their place and sweeping them, that was one of my favorite memories and always will be.

You mentioned you grew up liking the Red Wings, how is that possible in Colorado?

I grew up liking the Avs as well as the Red Wings, which I’ll admit is kind of odd. I’ve switched over to being a straight-up Avs fan now.

Did you have a favorite player growing up?

(Longtime Detroit center) Pavel Datsyuk was my favorite. I liked his skill. I wouldn’t say I tried ot model my game after him, but I enjoyed watching him.

Are you particular about your gear or do you have any superstitions?

Subconsciously yeah. I put everything on my right side on first, socks, skates, shin pads, and so on. … I tape my stick usually the same way. Sometimes I’ll change it up.

It seems like every year Air Force trots out amazing uniform variations. How are those received by the team?

All the boys really like it, especially the B-52s and the Space Force. My personal favorite was the all whites with the USAFA logo. No other team in college hockey is able to do things like we do. And we seem to play well in our alternate uniforms, too.

Thanksgiving is coming up. Are there any things you’re especially thankful for?

This is a typical answer, but I’m most thankful for my family. My parents’ support and my sister, too. I definitely wouldn’t be where I am without them. I have a pretty good support crew, which I don’t take for granted. … My favorite Thanksgiving memory was my first or second year up in Bismarck. I didn’t get to go home so my dad came up. We had some sliced ham, some vegetables and rolls, just sitting at table in the hotel. Him being there, I cherish those memories.

When you think about your teammates, are there any comedians that stand out?

Brian Adms is pretty funny. You wouldn’t think so right way, but he has a sarcastic humor. Liam Hansson, he’s a little quirky but a really good kid. He cracks us up, too.

Does the team have a DJ?

I wouldn’t really say we have one specific. Certain guys are good for certain genres. Luke Rowe is good with alternative stuff, almost like country. It’s a relaxing alternative thing. Bennett Norlin is good with classic rock and oldies. Maiszon Balboa is good with EDM and pop.

Elections are coming up next week. If there were Falcons on the ballot, who would get your vote?

Luke Robinson without a doubt. He’s a very smart guy, talks really well. He would fit that well.

And finally, if Coach Frank Serratore was a superhero, which one do you think he’d be?

I don’t even know. … You never know what you’re going to get. Never know what he’s going to say. That keeps it exciting in the room. I’m not a big follower of superheroes, so I don’t know if I can say which one he’d be.

©First Line Editorial 2022