Meet the Coaches

Coach McKinstry is a seasoned football coach with a rich background in both playing and coaching. A native of Milwaukee, WI, he graduated from Marquette University High School, where he lettered in three sports. He continued his football career at the University of Northern Iowa, eventually playing arena football for eight seasons across various leagues. Transitioning into coaching during the arena football off-seasons, Coach McKinstry has accumulated 16 years of experience. His coaching journey includes roles as an assistant coach at the University of Northern Iowa, positions within AFL2, and multiple high school coaching positions. His high school coaching resume boasts stops at his alma mater, Marquette University High School, as well as programs in Ohio, Nevada, Iowa, and South Dakota. In 2019, he played a pivotal role in leading O'Gorman Catholic to an 11AAA State Championship. In addition to his extensive coaching experience, McKinstry holds a Master’s Degree in LYHS from the University of Northern Iowa.

Coach Russhon Armstrong, brings six years of coaching experience and a passion for developing young athletes both on and off the field. Before joining the team, he coached at Pueblo High School, where his high-energy approach and commitment to his players’ success stood out. A former cornerback and wide receiver at Santa Rita High School, Arizona Western College, and Concordia University in St. Paul, MN, Coach Armstrong is dedicated to helping his players reach the next level by setting goals and working hard to achieve them. This year, he’s focused on leading the team to the playoffs.

Marcus Benjamin - known as Coach Benjamin or Coach Benji - has been coaching for seven years. A Louisiana native, he graduated from Westgate High School, where he excelled in football and track. His athletic talents earned him a full scholarship to Arizona Western College, where he played for two years before continuing his football career at the University of Arizona. After concluding his playing days, Coach Benjamin turned his passion for the game into a coaching career, bringing his experience and dedication to high school football.

Coach Flannigan is a proud U.S. Army veteran with 25 years of football coaching experience. Before joining Catalina Foothills High School, he made a significant impact at the Pop Warner level. His achievements include winning a city championship in Killeen, Texas, two city championships, and a state title with the Tucson Falcons, as well as a city and state championship with the Tucson Redskins. Most recently, he led a team to victory in the 2024 Redzone 7v7 National Championship.

Coach Kevin Greenwood, the Varsity Assistant Offensive and Defensive Line Coach, has over five years of coaching experience and a passion for developing players to reach the next level. A former high school center, he previously coached at Palo Verde, where his team won the 4A state championship. Coach Greenwood is dedicated to helping his linemen excel through superior technique and knowledge. He’s especially proud of the effort and commitment shown by the CFHS players during summer practices and 7v7 games, and he’s excited to see their hard work pay off this season. His son, Ethan, is also a member of the CFHS football team.

Coach Benjamin Goodwin is in his second year of coaching and is thrilled to embark on his first official coaching role with the Catalina Foothills High School football team, working alongside Coach McKinstry and Coach Lopez. Coach Goodwin believes that honesty and open communication are the cornerstones of effective coaching. He encourages a collaborative environment where both coach and player can have meaningful input. His message to his players is clear: "Be confident in your abilities. I would not put you in a position where I did not think you could succeed."

Coach Larsen brings over 20 seasons of coaching experience to the team, having guided offensive lines and quarterbacks at various Tucson high schools. His expertise extends to the collegiate level, where he coached wide receivers and quarterbacks at Division II Western New Mexico University. Additionally, he has coached wide receivers and quarterbacks at the junior college level for Pima Community College.

Jesus Lopez, the assistant coach for running backs and linebackers, brings 3½ years of coaching experience, having previously coached at Catalina Magnet High School and Sam Hughes Elementary School. His coaching philosophy centers on being understanding, disciplined, and fearless — qualities he believes are essential for success both on and off the field. Coach Lopez is dedicated to enhancing the culture around Catalina Foothills Football and encourages his players to believe in their hard work, reminding them that their efforts will pay off. "Don’t let anyone tell you it can’t be done," he says. "Time to cash in!"

With seven years of coaching experience, Justin Tarpley has guided both youth football teams and 7v7 teams. A former high school football and baseball standout, he continued his athletic career at Pima Community College on a baseball scholarship. Coach Tarpley instills in his players the belief that anything is possible through hard work and encourages them to keep the faith. He expects his players to improve progressively throughout the season and to uplift one another, both on and off the field.