Independence Community College is adding men’s and women’s cross country and track and field programs beginning in the 2027-28 academic year.

The I-C-C Board of Trustees approved all four programs at its October 19th meeting. Cross country will begin in fall 2027, followed by track and field in spring 2028. The track programs will initially focus on middle- and long-distance events.

Athletic Director Melissa Anderson says the new teams will give students from Independence and across Kansas more opportunities to compete in college while pursuing their education.

“For local runners who want to compete after high school, having a college program here in Independence opens another door,” said Marcus Lanning, Independence High School Assistant Principal/Activities Director “It gives them a chance to keep developing as athletes while continuing their education close to family and the community that has supported them.”

The programs are expected to compete at the N-J-C-A-A Division One level, pending association and conference approvals.

I-C-C will begin searching for coaches and recruiting athletes ahead of the inaugural seasons, giving local runners another opportunity to continue competing after high school while staying close to home.