Raymer Returns Home: Dawson Raymer Named New Head Coach of Goodland Cowboy Basketball

Goodland, KS — A familiar name on Northwest Kansas airwaves and an even more familiar face on the court is now at the helm of the Goodland High School boys basketball program. Dawson Raymer, a 2018 GHS graduate, has been officially named the new head coach of the Cowboys, returning to lead his alma mater with intensity, passion, and a deep appreciation for the town that shaped him.

Raymer joined the Morning Blitz radio show Tuesday morning in his first public interview since taking the job and reflected on the journey that brought him home.

“Honestly, it hasn’t quite felt real yet,” Raymer admitted. “The boys are at football camp right now, so we haven’t had that full team moment yet. But once they’re back and we get rolling, I know it’ll hit.”

After high school, Raymer's path took him to Emporia State and later Kansas State. He began his coaching career at Marion, working with his brother Donald, before heading to Center-Lost Springs where he coached junior high sports. His time there, he says, helped shape his leadership style and gave him a deeper understanding of player development.

When Goodland Athletic Director Marty Lehman reached out about the coaching vacancy following the departure of Mikey Doll, Raymer wasn’t initially sure if the timing was right. But a second call — and a sentimental gesture from Curry — changed his mind.

“He handed me the 2018 Substate Runner-Up trophy from my senior year and said, ‘Here’s something for your new office,’” Raymer said. “That meant a lot.”

That 2018 team, which narrowly missed a trip to state, remains one of the most talented Cowboy squads in recent memory — a group Raymer helped lead as a gritty, high-effort guard.

He now takes over a program coming off a run of talent-rich seasons. While the current roster may look different, Raymer is confident in the group’s hunger.

“They’re ready to make a name for themselves,” he said. “And I’m ready to help them do that.”

Raymer also acknowledged the competitiveness of the GWAC — one of the top leagues in the state — but welcomes the challenge.

“If you’re not nervous, you’re not prepared,” he said. “This is a great opportunity and I’m not going to run from it.”

One of the youngest coaches in the league, Raymer has already heard from other GWAC coaches offering support — including Holcomb’s Chad Novak, who Raymer once faced as a player.

“He messaged me and said, ‘If you need anything, just let me know,’” Raymer said. “That meant a lot.”

Raymer credits mentors like Coach Doll and Coach Bill Bierman for shaping his approach but says Cowboy fans can expect a unique flavor from his team.

“There will be similarities,” he said. “But I’m my own coach, and we’re going to bring a different level of intensity and toughness.”

That intensity will be on full display this summer as Raymer and his squad participate in a full schedule of camps and tournaments. Looking ahead, Raymer is focused on teaching effort-based, defense-first basketball and building chemistry with a new generation of Cowboys.

“Teams that play with energy and effort — they tend to do pretty well,” he said. “That’s what we’re aiming for.”

Cowboy fans should expect to see a fired-up sideline, intense gameplay, and a coach who’s fully invested in the black

and gold — not just because it’s his job, but because it’s home.