Traughber takes over reigns for Red Demon boys' hoops

Pending approval by their school board at the next meeting, Dodge City High School boys basketball will have a new head coach next season.

Shane Traughber will become the new head coach of Red Demon basketball after a three-year run at Stanton County. Traughber will also teach in the Physical Education department at DCHS, according to a release from the school on Thursday.

Traughber takes over for Tony Starnes, who was the head coach of Red Demon basketball the past three seasons, and posted a 25-38 record during his tenure. Traughber becomes just the third coach for the program in the past 33 years.

Traughber, who has a 42-24 record as a head coach, is a graduate of Sterling College. He was an assistant coach in Russell and Smith Center before taking over the program at Stanton County.

“I am extremely excited and honored to have this opportunity. I can’t wait to begin meeting with players and hosting team camp," said Traughber. "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.”

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.

This past season, the Trojans posted a 7-14 record, losing to Sub-State finalist Syracuse in the first round of the Class 2A Elkhart Sub-State. Traughber, who's wife, Joy, who will be an elementary teacher in the district, plans to arrive in Dodge City in time to conduct team camp and work with players throughout the summer.

“We believe Shane is going to be an outstanding fit for the Red Demon Basketball program," said DCHS Athletic Director Jay Gifford. "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."

Dodge City finished 4-17 this past season, and was eliminated by Haysville-Campus in the Class 6A Sub-State round last month.