Freedom Public School welcomes back cross-country for first through 12th grade students. What started out as eight runners has attracted 22 participants. Coach Germany has high expectations for his runners this year. Participants are required to work out after school by running two miles on three to four days a week.

Germany wants each of his kids' times to improve weekly, as well as at least one high school girl and boy to make state and eighth grade and below to classify in the top 10.

"I think we are going to keep adding numbers. We started at eight; now we are at 22 (participants). With on...