Clubs > Halifax Irish > The Maguires
The Maguires
From the very inception of Halifax Irish ARLFC, it was the two John Maguires who were the impetus behind the club and its development. It was John junior’s initial idea which sparked the formation of a Rugby League team at the Halifax Irish Club which had had a very successful soccer team for many years. John had been a leading half back for many seasons with Ovenden, Illingworth and Park Amateurs and it was his Irish heritage which led him to run with the idea.
He was supported from the outset by his father, John Snr, who came across from Belfast in the late 1940’s, where he was a
boxing champion in 1942! John snr was not just the figurehead of the club but also did sterling work behind the scenes. As the Club President, John Maguire snr, would prove to be the driving force as the team progressed through the Pennine League divisions, winning countless awards for his unwavering dedication.
In the 2007-8, John Snr was awarded the Pennine League Clubman of the Year for the Premier Division as a recognition of his key role at Halifax Irish.
John Snr sadly passed away in 2018. The turnout for his funeral was public display of how well-respected he was in the amateur Rugby League in Halifax. Pete Emmett recalled John Snr
“A fine gentleman and a tremendous servant to the sport of amateur rugby league.”
His son, John junior, is widely regarded as one of the finest amateur rugby league players in Halifax and led his Halifax Irish side to many unexpected triumphs. John also played professional Rugby League for Mansfield Marksmen. John played for many seasons as he worked tirelessly to keep the team together and the club functioning.
Along with Pete Emmett who played and coached at the club, the two John Maguires were interviewed live on Radio Leeds.
There is some Halifax Irish action on YouTube thanks to the work of Sharlston’s media team.
There is some Halifax Irish action on YouTube thanks to the work of Sharlston’s media team.
Halifax Irish v Sharlston 2007 Pennine Premier
Halifax Irish v Sharlston 2008 Pennine Premier