The Big East was founded in May of 1979 when Providence, St. John's, Georgetown, and Syracuse invited Seton Hall, Connecticut, and Boston College to form a conference primarily focused on basketball. While the membership has both increased and changed, the focus of the Big East has not wavered. The conference reflects a tradition of broad based programs, led by administrators and coaches who place a constant emphasis on academic integrity. Entering 2006, the Big East is the largest of all intercollegiate conferences with 16 full time members. Only nine of the 16 schools participate on the football field, but the college basketball regular season is one to behold as it’s by far the toughest and most competitive in the country. Big East Basketball teams have amassed five National Championships.