Jon Wilkin column

I loved watching the Challenge Cup final with my parents when I was a kid.

But no sooner had the game finished than I'd be off into the garden, running around pretending to be players I had just seen on the telly.

I was in a fantasy world. I certainly did not think my dreams of playing at Wembley would become reality.

This may sound bizarre, but until very recently I still had not come to terms with the fact that I'd be walking out on the hallowed turf this weekend, no doubt full of pride and with an immense sense of achievement.

If you look at the history of rugby league, there are probably a dozen major moments that will always be remembered.

From the switch from unlimited to limited tackles, the breakaway of the Northern Union and more recently the inception of the summer era and the Super League brand, these are things that really make their mark.

And in my opinion, Saturday's occasion will join the list.

There is little doubt that the first Challenge Cup final at the new Wembley is something very special and something to savour for everyone involved.

Preparing for a big game like the Challenge Cup final is, in my opinion, always good fun.

I imagine people assume we turn into ultra serious rugby nerds building up to a match of this magnitude, but in reality we take a relaxed approach and just try to enjoy being part of such a big occasion.

Don't get me wrong, I take training very seriously. But as soon as training finishes I like to just switch off totally and turn into a sloth-like creature until it's time to train again.

Apologies to anyone who meets me while I'm in this state. The lights may be on but there's nobody home.

The best way to bring me out of my stupor is to either slap me in the face or mention food. Both seem to bring me around.

Another player famous for his ability to switch off is my team-mate Paul Wellens.

You can hold an in-depth conversation with Wello about the pros and cons of the pedestrianisation of St Helens town centre and he can have no recollection of it ever happening.

After rooming with him prior to last year's Challenge Cup final, I got an insight on what it must be like for his wife, Rachel, and I'd like to nominate her for a special award for services to the community.

I know for a fact that certain people are on a black list when it comes to sharing rooms for away games.

Leon Pryce, for one. He makes a noise like a Harley Davidson when he's slumbering.

Ade Gardner is also one to avoid because he sleepwalks.

As for Mike Bennett, he has a strict lights out policy by 9pm and does not tolerate swearing or nudity within the confines of the room.

Anyone who falls foul of his rules is likely to find themselves banished indefinitely.

As the final approaches, I am reminded why I spent so much time on a rowing machine and lifting weights in pre-season.

Sometimes I question why I do these things, but an appearance in such a prestigious match is confirmation that I have made the right choices in my life.

This game is for my parents, Carol and Phil, and my sister, Nicola, whose endless support inspires me every single day. I just hope we can get the right result.

Source: BBC Sport