I agree. I have fave teams all around the globe now. Being from the states--Memphis, Tn specifically--but being a lifelong Lakers and Niners fan; as well as Golden Domers, and St. Louis Cardinals fan, and Grizzlies since they are in Memphis, for now. The experience is the only reason, really. Seein Shaq in person when he played against the Grizzlies was amazing. He was like a tree with shoes. So I am not a huge Grizzlies fan, but I do keep up with them when I can.
The Irish fanbase should be national and should be represented by the icons that way, as well, IMHO.