Shane Traughber tabbed as next DCHS boys basketball coach

(Courtesy of the Dodge City High School Athletic Department)

DODGE CITY, Kan. — The Dodge City High School Athletic Department has announced the hiring of Shane Traughber as the new Head Basketball coach of the Red Demons – pending Board of Education approval at the next scheduled meeting.

After an extensive search and interview process, Shane Traughber has been chosen to lead the DCHS Red Demon Basketball program. Traughber has been the head basketball coach at Stanton County for the past three years, compiling a record of 42-24. Traughber will teach in the Physical Education department at DCHS.

Coach Traughber is a graduate of Sterling College. He was an assistant coach in Russell and Smith Center before taking over the program at Stanton County. In his first year with the Trojans, Traughber led his team to the 2A State Tournament for the first time in 18 years. His sophomore campaign ended in the sub-state finals to eventual state champion, Ness City.

Shane is married to Joy Traughber, an elementary teacher who will also be teaching in the district. Coach Traughber plans to arrive in Dodge City in time to conduct team camp and work with players throughout the summer.

“I am extremely excited and honored to have this opportunity. I can’t wait to begin meeting with players and hosting team camp. My wife and I look forward to being a part of the Dodge City community. My vision for Red Demon basketball is for our team to play with energy, joy, and excellence while working to become the best young men (on and off the court) that we can be. ” –Coach Shane Traughber

“We believe Shane is going to be an outstanding fit for the Red Demon Basketball program. Coach Traughber believes team culture is the most important aspect of building a successful program and we believe Shane understands the vision of the DCHS Athletic Department – to intentionally develop character in all of our student athletes. He is fully committed to making a difference at Dodge High, both on and off the court. Coach Traughber has demonstrated he can successfully implement his system and develop players to compete at a high level. We are very pleased to welcome Coach Traughber and his wife to the Dodge City community.” – Jay Gifford – DCHS Athletic Director