I like the competitive nature of playing down back winning your own footy and stuff but then everyone loves kicking a goal so it’s evens out
- Jacob Koschitzke
MURRAY Bushrangers star Jacob Koschitzke is unfazed about playing at either end of the ground during this year’s AFL Under-18 Championships.
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Koschitzke was used in key forward and defensive posts in the Allies’ final trial match against Victoria Country last weekend and is preparing for coach Adrian Fletcher to swing him around.
“I’d say my role will be rotating between both,” Koschitzke said.
“I’m happy to play wherever they need me.
“I like the competitive nature of playing down back winning your own footy and stuff but then everyone loves kicking a goal so it evens out a bit.”
Murray Bushrangers coach Leon Higgins said Koschitzke’s versatility was one of his biggest strengths.
“I think that’s what AFL clubs are looking for him to do,” Higgins said.
“He certainly did it well in the trial game.
“He’s playing really well at the moment.”
Koschitzke has been named in the Allies squad along with his Murray Bushrangers teammates Nick Murray, Ben Kelly and Matt Walker.
The Allies take on Victoria Country in the opening round at Sydney’s Spotless Stadium on June 9.
Hudson Garoni, Zane Barzen, Laitham Vandermeer, Lachie Ash and Mark Marriott are in the Victorian Country squad.
Ash is a bottom-age player and, like Barzen last year, was named after some impressive early season form.
The sides for the opening round of the championships could be released in the next 48 hours.
Koschitzke may find himself lining up against Garoni at different stages.
Higgins said the championships were an enormous opportunity for the nine youngsters to play well in front of AFL talent scouts.
“Nine is a pretty good result for us,” Higgins said.
“It’s great for the boys to be exposed to the next level.
“It’s obviously a good endorsement for their early form in the TAC Cup.”