Louth player James Meenan hopes to add to medal tally at Special Olympics World Games in Berlin

The 27 year-old from Greenacres, who plays with Newry City Special Olympics Team, has been selected for the Irish soccer team, fulfilling a long held ambition.

James made the headlines eight years ago when he returned from Los Angeles with an amazing haul of medals – winning a gold in the 100 metres, bronze in the 200 metres and silver in the 4 x 100 metres relay.

“He always wanted to play football so when he was selected for the football team, it was his dream come true,” says his proud Mum Eileen Meenan.

She says that he has worked really hard to earn his place on the team and represent his country, trying in The Gym on the Avenue Road every day after work.

His colleagues in Vida Living. Dundalk, are supporting him all the way and have been organising lots of fund-raising events.

James and the Irish Special Olympics team will travel to Berlin for the games on June 12.

His family and friends, including his Eileen younger brothers Kevin and Leo, and Dad Liam, are all wishing him the best and hoping that the Manchester United supporter will add to his hoard of medals.