'I built up respect so that even when I made a mistake I’d get away with it'

The messages have been plentiful as they have been humbling. Heart-warming texts from Derek McGrath, Anthony Daly, and Nicky English. 

The likes of Ned Quinn and Paul Kinsella have been in touch from Kilkenny too as well as Eddie Keher in the form of a letter.

Brian Gavin now knows he was well got but the deluge of well-wishes since announcing his retirement from inter-county hurling earlier this month has humbled him.