OUR TEAM
Our team is led by Luke Benoit, founder of Rypstick and 12-time Golf Digest “Best Young Teacher” award recipient. Luke has assembled an incredible team of experts to provide the most comprehensive junior golf training experience available.
Dr. Luke Benoit, Ph.D., PGA
Founder, President
Dr. Luke Benoit, Ph.D. is the founder of RYP Golf (Rypstick) and Director of Instruction at Interlachen Country Club in Edina, MN. With over 20 years of coaching experience, a background in fitness, motor learning, and biomechanics, Luke has guided 120+ DI players, multiple tour professionals, and Minnesota’s top competitors. In 2023, his players swept the Men’s and Women’s Minnesota State and State Open titles. Known for research-driven, innovative coaching, Luke’s mission with RYP Academy is to unite world-class experts to deliver elite golf performance programs.
Phillip Herder, MS
Lead Fitness Professional & Manager
Phil Herder is RYP Golf’s lead fitness expert, blending academic expertise with hands-on coaching. A former high school golfer turned Exercise & Sport Science graduate from UW–River Falls, Phil holds a Master’s in Strength & Conditioning and certifications from TPI, NSCA, and ACSM. He co-authored published golf performance research with Dr. Luke and customizes training for athletes of all ages. At RYP Academy, Phil leads fitness programs, research projects, and operations, while also coaching girls’ golf at Stillwater Area High School.
Makel Mackbee
Academy Director & Coach
Makel oversees the day-to-day operations of RYP Academy, guiding students through structured development plans while fostering a supportive, high-performance environment. A former collegiate golfer with a background in coaching and program management, he brings both on-course experience and organizational expertise to the team. Makel works closely with players and families to ensure every student’s journey is personalized, disciplined, and aligned with long-term goals. At RYP Academy, he balances his passion for teaching with a commitment to creating a world-class experience for the next generation of golfers.
Teddy Kaste
Social Media Manager
Teddy Kaste is RYP Golf’s Social Content Manager, leading bold, performance-driven storytelling across every platform. As head of the RYP Ignite program, he manages athlete partnerships and grassroots initiatives, building a community that fuels RYP’s growth on and off the course.
Justin Kraft, PGA
Director of Instruction @ Spring Hill GC
Justin Kraft is a PGA coach and Director of Instruction at Spring Hill Golf Club, with over 150,000 social media followers (@kraftygolf). A four-time collegiate National Championship competitor, multiple “Player of the Year” awardee, and three-time professional winner, Justin pairs his playing success with certifications from US Kids Golf, TrackMan, Swing Catalyst, and TPI. Named 2022 Minnesota PGA Youth Development Award winner, he specializes in biomechanics, skill building, and mindset training for golfers of all levels.
Yannick Artigolle
Mental Training Coach
Yannick Artigolle is the Mental Performance Coach at RYP Golf, specializing in the development of junior and competitive amateur athletes. A former NCAA Division I golfer at Northwestern University, he brings a wealth of firsthand experience in elite competition to his coaching.
Leveraging his background in high-stakes environments, Artigolle earned a Master’s in Sport, Exercise, and Performance Psychology. He employs evidence-based techniques such as ACT, CBT, and various performance psychology tools to help athletes build resilience, sharpen focus, and manage pressure.