Freedom track and field coach, Artie Owens, is heading into his third year with the Patriots, and is finding a nice balance of leadership and youth for the 2013 season.

Owens may already have a head start with middle distance and distance runners who ran on Freedom's league and district champion cross country team, including Chris Kelly and Doo Park, who are also returners to the track team.

"Since cross country did so well, I'm hoping my mid-distance and distance runners will do well," Owens said.

Shaina Palmer and Caterina Atiyeh, who also ran cross country, are key returners for the girls' track team.

"I can see the maturity in Shaina, and Caterina is a senior leader," said Owens.

The Patriots have an abundance of freshmen and sophomore sprinters and jumpers.

Tony Flatt, who just began during this year's winter track season, has stepped up as another leader for the team, and will most likely run the 200 and the 4x1 relay.

Senior, Kelly Russia, has run track all four years, and should be a strength on the 4x4 relay.

Key returners in hurdles include Emilee Strange in the 300, and Devon Milligan in the 110 and 300.

Owens is expecting good things from thrower, Scott Tress, and jumper, Victor Gonzalez.

"We started out in the winter with the kids doing various events. The kids are doing a tremendous job. They are very positive," Owens said.