Josh Koschitzke making a name for himself in the Hume league

Whenever he meets a stranger for the first time and they learn of his famous surname, Koschitzke invariably knows the next question he will be asked will be about his cousins Justin and Jacob.

While Justin retired from the AFL in 2013 after 200 matches with St Kilda, Jacob is enjoying a breakout season with Hawthorn and has played in ten of the Hawks' 11 matches this year.

"It seems that anybody I meet for the first time and if I mention my surname they are quick to ask me how I'm related to them," Koschitzke said.

"I find a lot more people asking about Jacob now instead of Justin.

"We went down to watch Jacob this year when he made his debut.

"I suppose having the surname might make people watch me a bit more when I'm playing but they will soon get disappointed with what they see."

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While Koschitzke may be quick to downplay his own ability, the 20-year-old is building his reputation in the Hume league.

After playing in the Saints' thirds flag in 2017, Koschitzke also played in a senior premiership the following season.

Koschitzke has established himself as a regular in the Saints' line-up, predominantly on a wing and pinch hitting in the midfield.

After playing in five grand finals since 2013 for four flags the Saints are in unfamiliar territory after a slow start to the season.

The league heavyweight sits seventh with a 3-4 record and faces a must win clash against a vastly improved Lockhart.

Koschitzke said there is plenty of room for improvement.

"It's no secret we started the season a bit slow and got a bit flat after that," he said.

"But we are getting back to the Saints football that we are capable of and that has stood us in good stead previously.

"A lot of opposition sides have already written us off as finals contenders.

"But internally, we know if we can produce our best football that we are good enough to beat most sides in the competition."

High-profile recruit Damian Cupido has struggled for form and fitness with 10 goals from three matches.

Koschitzke said the former AFL player had a wealth of experience and knowledge which had proved invaluable for the younger Saints.

"Cupes has been great and his footy knowledge is amazing at training and on game day," he said.

"He has been frustrated to be on the sidelines and miss a bit of footy.

"But you can't doubt his passion and on game day he is quick to have a word and give you some advice."

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