How often would you wash your jeans? The odd questions that can decide a sporting career 

When Irish hopefuls try out for pro outfits in the NFL or Aussie Rules, there are copious curveballs thrown in their direction. The first lesson is to step outside your comfort zone - and fast

AMERICAN INQUISITION: Wicklow goalkeeper Mark Jackson in the closing seconds of the Tailteann Cup semi-final defeat to Limerick at Croke Park. Jackson was one of four Irish kickers to enter the NFL’s International Player Pathway last year, an experience that included an intense interview session. Pic: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

IMAGINE this. You fly halfway around the world in pursuit of a professional sporting dream. The people who will decide whether that dream lives or dies are sitting across the table asking questions that vary from straightforward to the downright bizarre.

Your future depends on how you answer.