CLUB HISTORY

The 1960 season went well with Craigbane being the only club in North Derry to beat Dungiven. Unfortunately the club then folded in 1962, largely due to emigration.

The present club, St. Joseph's, Craigbane came into existence in 1972 under the leadership of Gerry Crossan. This team first played at a field in Munigh. They played in Division 4 with their first match being an away victory to Coleraine and ended the season mid-table.

In 1973 Craigbane reached their first Junior County Final, they lost to Drum at Dungiven. The following year the team went through the League unbeaten and won the 4th Division.

In 1975 the Leagues were restructured and Craigbane found themselves in Division2 along with parish rivals, Claudy. On 27th April 1975, St. Joseph's, Craigbane and John Mitchell's, Claudy met in their first ever competitive match. The newcomers, Craigbane won easily!

At the end of the 1975 season, Craigbane were promoted to Senior Football for the first time. Their first game in Division1 was a defeat against Glen on a 2-9 to 1-9 scoreline, however their second match proved to be the one that had everyone talking when Craigbane drew against County League holders, Ballinderry on a 1-6 to 2-3 scoreline. They also drew with Ballinscreen and the mighty Ballerin on their first home game. Even with some excellent displays, Craigbane were relegated to Division2 for the 1977 season.