PITTSBURGH -- Pittsburgh Steelers owner Dan Rooney is reportedly on the short list to be named the next ambassador to Ireland.

The Rooney family roots are in Newry, Northern Ireland and he visits the emerald isle frequently.

Rooney was an early supporter of President Obama and campaigned for him and last week gave him the game ball from the AFC championship game.

Democratic Congressman Mike Doyle said he thinks Rooney is a great choice to be ambassador to Ireland.

“I can't think of a finer ambassador for the United states to Ireland than Dan Rooney. The work they've done with the Ireland Institute the Rooney’s have been involved with work in peace and reconciliation,” Doyle said.

According to the Irish Times, the appointment is expected to be announced around St. Patrick’s Day,