The Sawkas have been a staple of Okotoks Oilers hockey since the eldest brother of three started in the 2017-2018 AJHL season.
Defenceman and eldest brother Tanner was the first to crack the roster, followed by goaltender Parker, and then the youngest brother Hunter.
Tanner and Parker played on the Oilers together when Parker first joined the team and then Hunter got to play with Parker in Hunter's first season with the team.
Now Hunter continues the Sawka legacy with the team.
"I grew up watching the games here in Okotoks, and I liked what they did. Definitely, I knew I was coming here the whole time," said Hunter.
Hunter playing alongside his brother Parker with the Oilers was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
In addition to the three boys, the Sawkas also have a sister, Taylor, who played high-end hockey at Clarkson University of the NCAA, as a forward, the same position as Hunter.
He mentioned that they spent a lot of time out in their family's backyard rink, with Parker playing in net, Tanner on defence, and Hunter and Taylor at forward playing some 2-on-1 drills.
Hunter grinned when asked who scored more goals between him and his sister, saying it was about a 50/50 split.
He also mentioned that head coach and GM of the Oilers, Tyler Deis, has meant a lot to his family as he helped coach the three brothers, pushed them to the next level and has been a big part of all of their success.
Sakwa is now in his fourth full season with the Green and Gold.
"I have loved every bit of it. I have developed a lot, it's been a stepping stone in trying to get to the next level and get my school and stuff paid for. That has been the goal all along and I love every moment here."
Sawka is committed to Western Michigan University after his junior hockey career comes to a close, where he'll join former Okotoks Oiler Sam Huck and current Oiler Otto Hanson.
Sawka added that he has kept in contact with Huck through the early parts of the BCHL season, and plans to see him during Christmas break.
Last season, Sawka was on a tear with 57 points in 47 games. Unfortunately for him and the Oilers, he sustained an injury that kept him out for the last half of the season and all of the playoffs.
"It was brutal honestly, it's the worst being in the stands. I just wanted the boys to do well, and they pushed Brooks to seven (games), they did a great job."
"I got hip surgery on my right hip, so I was on crutches for the first six weeks, couldn't train for six weeks after the crutches, so I only got to train in August and started skating around there. A lot of rehab and stuff like that. Seeing the physio and just making sure I stay on top of it and doing the best I can do to get better."
Sawka said he feels great and is back to 100 per cent now.
Brock Souch, a recent addition to the team who was acquired from the Brooks Bandits, has already made the top line with Jackson Rowland and Sawka.
"We have only had one game and a few practices but I thought we were really good in the one game we got. It's a good mix of different skills on a line. So I think once we get a couple of games under our belt that the chemistry will grow for sure," said Sawka about his line.
Sawka voiced appreciation for his parents' role in facilitating his incredible minor hockey journey.
"They have supported me the whole way, they gave me the opportunity to play hockey, taking to the early morning and late night practices," said Sawka.
When asked about the difference between the AJHL and BCHL, Sawka pointed out the high skill level, faster pace, and that each line can produce on any given night.
New members of the Oilers have praised Sawka for his work in bringing them into the fold and displaying what it means to be an Okotoks Oiler.
In Sawka's eyes, once you are an Oiler, you are always an Oiler. That's made evident in Sawka trains offseason training with former teammate Reiger Lorenz. He has asked Lorenz what the NCAA life is like as well as some tips as Lorenz has been doing really well with Denver in the NCAA.
Sawka left a message for the Green Army.
"We love playing in front of you guys, it gets us going, and we love to see the passion."
10 questions with Hunter Sawka
What is your go-to cheat meal?
"Maybe A&W, like a chicken burger or something like that. Their onion rings are good as well."
Favourite player and team growing up?
"Pittsburgh Penguins and Sidney Crosby."
Favourite sport other than hockey?
"Golf. I love to golf in the summer."
What is your guilty pleasure song?
"Sleep on My Side by Megan Moroney."
Do you prefer using black or white hockey tape?
"White hockey tape. I used black for most of my life. Last year I switched, had a couple of good games and just stuck with it."
What is your pre-game ritual?
"Just a pre-game nap. Get home from the rink, and take a nap. Nothing too serious."
Favourite TV show and movie?
"Breaking Bad and maybe Happy Gilmore."
If you could meet anyone in the world, alive or dead, who would it be?
"Probably Sidney Crosby honestly. Ask him a bunch of questions and stuff like that."
Who was your first celebrity crush?
"Jennifer Aniston"
What is your spirit animal?
"Maybe like a golden retriever"
Bonus
What's the first thing you do when you get home from a road trip?
"Brush my teeth and go to bed. Maybe grab something to eat."
What is your secret talent?
"I can juggle."
What is the best chirp you have ever heard or said?
"Maybe something with the nose, I've heard a lot of people go after people's noses. Calling them Pinocchio and stuff like that."