Dear Noel,

I’ve a trial with the county squad next Saturday, Noel. My twin brother is getting married the same day, and I’m the Best Man. The wedding is at 1o’c.

The hotel say they will be serving the dinner between 6.30pm and 7pm. The trial game is down for 7.15pm. It’s a desperate clash and the entire family, not just me, is very upset by the whole thing.

I’ve been trying for years to get a run at county level, and can’t believe my bad luck that it has come now on such an auspicious day for the family. My brother was very sickly when he was young, they didn’t think he’d pull through, but he’s a fine man now and enjoys a game of Badminton during the winter.

Anyway, my question, Noel, is how should I approach the pre-trial scene in the dressingroom? Should I talk to established players, or keep to myself? I don’t know the protocol in these matters and would appreciate your assistance.

- Conor, Munster

 Noel replies – It’s extremely unfortunate Conor. Weddings are such important family occasions. Uncles and aunts home from England and America, old friends who haven’t met up for years, and warm memories that last a lifetime.

Anyway, to your question. I would keep myself to myself in that scenario. Show just how serious you are about your game. The manager will notice if you’re excitable.

Land togged and straight out onto that field. Don’t take part in the puckaround. Put no heed on the experienced county men. Do some burdee jumps in the corner. If you can get another player to join you doing a few piggy-backs, all the better. But you do all the carrying.

That’ll prove just how much of a hard you are, and I can’t see you not making the squad, to be honest.

I wouldn’t shave, or wash, from Wednesday on. I wish you the best of luck and pass on my very best wishes to your brother. Delighted for him after all he’s been through.

If you want to take your points, and let the goals take care of themselves, contact Noel on This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it ; www.knowledgeablenoel.com; Skype (knowledgeable.noel); and Facebook (Knowledgeable Noel.)

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