Emporia High School has found a familiar and experienced face to lead the Spartans football team. During a meeting held on Wednesday night, the USD 253 Board of Education approved the hiring of Daniel Goodman as the next head coach.
Goodman, an Emporia High alum from the class of 2010, is eager to return to his roots, having spent the past 13 years at Emporia State University, both as a player and a coach.
This marks a full-circle moment for Goodman, who had previously played for the Hornets under coach Bill Lowe and continued his playing career at Emporia State under coach Garin Higgins.
Goodman’s Athletic Background and Coaching Journey
Goodman’s connection to Emporia High and Emporia State is extensive. A standout player, he was a four-year letterman at center for the Hornets and earned All-MIAA honors during his junior and senior years. He played a key role as a starting center during the 2013 season, when the Hornets made it to the NCAA Division II playoffs.
After concluding his playing career, Goodman transitioned into coaching. He worked as a graduate assistant at Emporia State under coach Higgins in 2015 and 2016, where he coached tight ends.
Goodman then broadened his coaching experience by joining North Dakota State University, where he served as a defensive quality control assistant and was part of two NCAA FCS National Championship-winning teams.
Returning to Emporia State in 2019, Goodman took on multiple roles, coaching centers and guards, running backs, and stinger backs. Additionally, he served as the special teams coordinator and recruiting coordinator.
Goodman is excited to bring his diverse coaching experience into his new role as head coach of Emporia High’s football team. “I’ve learned a lot from coaching various positions, and now I’m ready to apply those lessons to this new opportunity,” he said.
A Strong Support System
Emporia State’s coach Garin Higgins expressed his enthusiasm for Goodman’s new role. “I’m thrilled for Daniel to get the chance to lead the Spartans,” Higgins stated, acknowledging Goodman’s deep knowledge and dedication to the sport.
Beau Welch, the athletic director at Emporia High, also shared his support for Goodman. “Daniel is a great fit to lead our team,” Welch said, recognizing Goodman’s qualifications and passion for the game.
Looking Forward to the Future
Goodman steps into the role following the resignation of Kaden Glinsmann, who held the position for two seasons with a challenging 0-18 record.
The Spartans are determined to break their 19-game losing streak, which dates back to their last win—a 83-64 victory over Highland Park on October 28, 2022. Goodman will be guiding the Spartans when they open the 2025 season at home against Pittsburg on September 5.
In addition to his role as the football coach, Goodman will be teaching physical education and weights at Emporia High, further cementing his connection to the school community.
Additional Coaching Appointments
Goodman isn’t the only new coach approved by the board. The athletic department also welcomed two new golf coaches. Caleb Short was named the girls golf coach at Emporia High, marking his first head coaching position. Short currently serves as an assistant coach for the boys’ basketball team.
PJ Marstall, who was previously Rick Eckert’s assistant coach, will take on the role of the boys’ golf coach. Marstall is well-known at Emporia High, having served as an assistant football coach for many years and even as the interim head coach during the 2013 season.
Beau Welch expressed confidence in the new appointments, stating, “Both Caleb and PJ are fantastic additions to our athletic department.”
Daniel Goodman’s appointment as Emporia High’s football coach is a highly anticipated and positive development for the Spartans. With a rich background in both playing and coaching, Goodman is well-positioned to help the team turn a new chapter.
Alongside the new football coach, the athletic department is also making strides by welcoming new golf coaches. With all these changes, Emporia High’s athletics are poised for an exciting future.
FAQs
Who is Daniel Goodman?
Daniel Goodman is the newly appointed head football coach for Emporia High School. He is an alum of Emporia High and Emporia State, where he also played and later coached. Goodman brings years of coaching experience and a deep connection to the community.
When does Emporia High’s football season begin under Coach Goodman?
Coach Daniel Goodman will lead the Spartans in their 2025 football season opener on September 5, when Emporia High faces Pittsburg at home.
Who are the new golf coaches at Emporia High?
Caleb Short will be the new girls’ golf coach, and PJ Marstall will take on the role of boys’ golf coach. Both coaches bring strong experience to their positions and are expected to make a positive impact on the program.