After starring in this summer's blockbuster, Man of Steel, Kevin Costner will next focus on a more down-to-Earth role.  He was reported as being in talks with a new sports drama for Disney about a year ago, but can now be confirmed.  He'll star in McFarland, the high school track team drama directed by Niki Caro (Whale Rider).  The story centers on the champion track team of the predominantly-Hispanic California town of McFarland which overcomes social and physical challenges during their meets in the 1980s.  Hit the jump for more.

Variety reports that Costner is officially on board McFarland, the latest sports drama out of Disney.  The studio has a good track record with Miracle, Invincible and Remember the Titans under their belts.  Currently in production is their baseball drama Million Dollar Arm, starring Jon Hamm, Bill Paxton, Alan Arkin, Lake Bell, Suraj Sharma and Madhur Mittal. 

Costner, who is currently filming Black and White with Octavia Spencer, is no stranger to sports-related films.  The baseball classic Field of Dreams is often quoted, moreso than his other baseball-related films For Love of the Game and Bull Durham; and don't forget Costner's golfing rom-com Tin Cup.  He's experiencing a career resurgence as of late with upcoming roles in Kenneth Branagh's Jack Ryan, due to open this Christmas with Chris Pine in the title role; McG's new thriller, Three Days to Kill opening next Valentine's Day; and Ivan Reitman's new sports drama, Draft Day, about the Cleveland Browns' struggles to secure the number one draft spot.