When a disgraced high school cross-country coach is transferred to a struggling school, he must inspire a ragtag group of runners to believe in themselves and work as a team to defeat his former championship squad.

SYNOPSIS:

After leading his former school to two state cross-country championships, Coach Kelsey is abruptly reassigned to Canterbury High following a bogus harassment allegation. He’s promised a return in a year, on one condition: lead Canterbury’s long-suffering, winless team to just one victory.

Confident at first, Kelsey’s optimism fades when he meets his ragtag squad:

• Russ: the only experienced runner, torn between training and helping at his family’s store.
• Javon: lightning fast but struggling with conditioning and weight.
• Puneet: a cerebral overthinker who micromanages his energy output.
• Kevin: a slacker who joins just to get a student parking pass.
• Javy: quiet and anxious but finds rhythm through his headphones.
• Jeremy: a pint-sized instigator with more fight than frame.
• Brian: their one-legged team manager, eager to jump in if needed.

Hope returns when Mike, a star from Kelsey’s former team, transfers in after his parents’ divorce. Though hesitant, thanks to a girlfriend who looks down on Canterbury, he joins after their breakup, bringing serious talent and belief to the group.

Meanwhile, Canterbury endures constant ridicule from arrogant rival Stevenson High. But for every insult hurled, the team fires back with creativity and heart. With every loss, they grow stronger, learning that cross-country isn’t just about individual grit, but about running for each other.

Kelsey must also contend with Stevenson’s petty new coach, hellbent on keeping him from reclaiming his old job.

As the misfits bond and rise, it all builds to a final showdown with undefeated Stevenson, where unity, heart, and one shot at redemption just might be enough.

CANTERBURY TRAILS