Ballymaguigan
Ballymaguigan
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 Ballymaguigan
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| Ballymaguigan shown within Northern Ireland | |
| Population | 2,408 |
| District | |
| County | |
| Country | Northern Ireland |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Post town | Ballyronan |
| Postcode district | BT45 |
| Dialling code | 028 |
| EU Parliament | Northern Ireland |
Ballymaguigan (from Irish: Baile Mhic Guaigín, meaning "McGuigan's townland") is a hamlet and townland in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland. It is near the northwest shore of Lough Neagh and close to Magherafelt. The hamlet forms one part of a parish named Ardtrea North. Ballymaguigan is part of the Mid-Ulster District.
Lough Neagh is situated in lower end of Ballymaguiagn. It is regarded by fishermen of Ballymaguigan and surrounding areas as one of the best places to obtain eels in Ulster, and is also good for obtaining salmon. Due to its location on the shores of Lough Neagh, was once the primary source of income for many families in Ballymaguigan.
The University of Ulster used to have a base in Ballymaguigan, located on the Point Road. The university campus tested and treated the waters of Lough Neagh, to treat and look after the wildlife in the lough. The laboratory is now closed and was formerly the largest marine biology center in the UK.
Gaelic games are the most popular sports in the area, with St.Trea's G.F.C being the local club. Ballymaguiagn fields Gaelic football teams at U12, U14, U16, Minor, Reserve, Thirds and Senior levels. There are also Minor and Senior ladies Gaelic football teams.
Prior to 1944 one team catered for the combined interests of Ballymaguigan and Newbridge. The war came, Toome Airfield was built, practically dividing the parish in two, thus making it very difficult for the Ballymaguigan players to travel to the pitch in the creagh for training. Paddy Batson suggested that a ball be purchased so that the local players could practise in Ballymaguigan. From this initial step the beginnings of an independent club became apparent.
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Wikipedia