Independence Community College will launch men’s and women’s cross country and track and field programs in the 2027-28 academic year, creating new opportunities for student-athletes to compete at the college level.
The ICC Board of Trustees approved the addition of the four programs at its Oct. 19 meeting. Cross country will begin in fall 2027, followed by track and field in spring 2028. The track and field programs will initially focus on middle- and long-distance events. ICC plans for the teams to compete at the NJCAA Division I level, subject to association and conference approvals.
“We’re excited to welcome these runners to Pirate Athletics and give students from our area and across Kansas another opportunity to continue a sport they love while pursuing their education,” said Melissa Anderson, ICC Athletic Director. “College athletics helps students build skills that carry into life after graduation, including managing their time, working with others and persevering through challenges. These programs will give more student-athletes a place to compete, grow and experience the value of an ICC education”.
The new teams will offer runners from Independence and surrounding communities another option to continue competing after high school while attending college close to home. Men’s and women’s teams in both sports will provide opportunities across the fall and spring seasons.
“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.”
ICC will begin the coaching search and prepare to recruit its first teams ahead of the inaugural seasons.
For more information about the new programs, contact Melissa Anderson at manderson@indycc.edu.