Intramural and Recreational Sports photographs and memorabilia
Collection
Identifier: 2022_017
A variety of material from Intramural and Recreational Sports, formerly held in their director's office. This small group of materials includes photographs of events, including both Intramural events such as the Turtle Derby and Ellis Mendelsohn's retirement dinner; certificates (mostly for Ellis Mendelsohn); framed sketches of UofL gym buildings; an intramural blanket and t-shirt; and a term paper written by Ellis Mendelsohn for a course taken an Indiana University.
This collection is open to researchers.
1 linear feet (2 flat boxes and one half-manuscript box)
Intramural sports started at the University of Louisville in the 1928-29 academic year, under the auspices of the "L" Club. Initially, it was exclusively male. In 1932, intramurals for women were introduced. While intramurals, which eventually came under the umbrella of the University's Physical Education Department, drew significant participation from the student body, the apointment of Ellis Mendelsohn as Intramural Director in the 1953-54 academic year is seen as a watershed. Mendelsohn is credited with expanding the intramurals program. He also began including students in the administration of intramurals, as guided by a constitution and by-laws. He also provided more opportunities for awards and recognition, and began an annual banquet to honor champions. Over the years, sports have been added or have faded away, depending on student interest. For example, sports such as frisbee gold, pizza eating, and wally ball have come and gone. in
UARC 11-10-1 (boxes 1-3: 2 large flats and a half-manuscript box) and Map case 1-5 (three drawings of gym buildings).
Part of the University of Louisville Archives and Special Collections Repository