June Sports Star of the Month – Jack Woolley

SOUTH Dublin Taekwondo’s Jack Woolley has been declared The Echo Sports Star of the Month for June after carding gold in the Mexico Open.

In the Round of 16, the Tallaght man met Dominican Republic’s Geraldo Rodríguez, whom he beat after two rounds 36-9.

A quarter final encounter with Venezuelan Yohandri Granado saw Woolley emerge an 11-9 winner, setting up a meeting with World bronze medallist Paulo Melo of Brazil.

In full momentum Jack closed out the match in dominating fashion, winning 29-12, and subsequently setting up a final encounter with home favourite, current world silver medallist and Pan-American champion Brandon Plaza of Mexico for the top prize.

The Mexican, renowned for his aggressive style, played his part in a gruelling contest that saw Woolley dig deep to earn a 25-18 victory.

The following month Woolley became the very first competitor in his sport to represent Ireland at the Olympic Games in Tokyo.