Winter months in Ohio are characterized by large piles of snow, slick roads and subarctic temperatures, which often limit intramural outdoor activities at Ohio State. But upon entering Larkins Hall, intramural activities at OSU are all but limited.

Established in 1914, OSU’s intramural program was the first at any university in the country. Since its inception, the program has continued to grow, while offering students and faculty many memories and opportunities throughout the years.

During the winter months the OSU intramural program provides five different sports to choose from. The basketball program is routinely the most popular with more than 4,000 students participating in the program.

“I think the league also brings a lot of students together and gives them a chance to unwind from the day’s activities,” said Cory Taylor, intramural coordinator.

Watching over the entire intramural program is Ken Hill, assistant director of Intramural Sports and Special Events. Hill and his staff of four graduate assistants and over 200 officials and equipment managers cater to the one of the largest intramural basketball programs in the country.

“It is very difficult to put together a league of this size,” Taylor said. “But in the end, being able to put together a league of this size is very gratifying.”

The numbers of the intramural basketball program at OSU are amazing in itself, with 400 teams competing this year alone.

With so many teams in the league, Hill’s staff has been faced with the difficult task of coordinating games around the construction at Larkins Hall by moving some of the games over to Jesse Owens North.

“I think moving some of the league games over to Jesse Owens North has improved the league,” Hill said. “By moving some of the games over to Jesse Owens North it has helped the expansion of the league, which is already very popular.”

The league, which takes place six days a week, contains eight divisions and is officiated by referees, all of whom are certified by the Ohio High Scholastic Athletic Association. Prior to the start of the season, intramural referees take part in practice games to help them prepare for the start of the season.

“We really try to have the best officiating possible, considering that officiating is usually one of our biggest complaints.” Hill said. “The classes also give our students the opportunity to officiate high school games and serves as just another great opportunity for the students in our program.

“We do anything we can to improve the league, he said. “Ee do whatever we can to provide a fun, competitive atmosphere for everyone.”

Phil Martin, a junior in marketing who plays in the independent “B” league, is one of many OSU students who enjoy the league’s competitive style.

“Ohio State does a great job putting the league together, and it’s run very well, considering how many teams play in the league,” Martin said. “I think the league also does a good job in providing evenly matched teams, which makes for some good overall competition.”