NICK
Stubbe a . k . a FAT PEREZ
in the final cut was a surreal moment . I went from being a skeptic to recognizing that people were genuinely interested in what I was doing ,” Stubbe recalls .
Regarding the accessibility of becoming a golf influencer today , he acknowledges the growing competition while also emphasizing the importance of authenticity and doing what genuinely resonates with you :
“ It ’ s definitely a more crowded space now ,” he says . “ While it ’ s easier to start , there is no guarantee of success . My advice is to focus on what you love within the golf space and offer something unique . If it does not work out , at least you enjoyed the effort .”
@ thefatperez
@ FatPerez33
Nick Stubbe , known as “ Fat Perez ” on social media , rose to fame through an unexpected twist of fate . His journey began during the pandemic when he found himself participating in Zoom happy hours with Bob Does Sports , a popular golf channel .
“ I was just bored during COVID and happened to meet Bob and Joe through these Zoom sessions ,” Stubbe says . “ We hit it off on the course , and when Bob Does Sports evolved into a golf channel , they asked me to join them for a match video with Barstool Foreplay . That video was a game-changer for me .”
His hallmark is a combination of engaging content , a distinctive personality , and a genuine approach . “ One of the things
I ’ m known for is my euro step birdie celebration ,” he shares with a laugh . “ But I think my unconventional build also resonates with many people . I hope it shows that you don ’ t need a prototypical golfer ’ s physique to improve your game .”
Initially , Stubbe didn ’ t envision himself becoming an influencer .
“ The whole thing just kind of happened ,” he admits . “ Even when I was first featured on Instagram and later filmed with Bob Does Sports for the Barstool video , it didn ’ t feel like a ‘ try-out .’ I was just excited to be part of a fun experience .”
It wasn ’ t until the Barstool video garnered significant attention that he realized the potential of his content . “ Seeing the response and how much I was featured
Nick Stubbe
PHOTOS COURTESY OF GAVIN PARKER & NICK STUBBE
Tying it all together
BEN KRUPER , BRYCE COPE , GAVIN PARKER , AND NICK STUBBE each offer a unique approach to engaging with the golf community and building their influence . Their stories reflect the diverse paths one can take in the influencer space , illustrating the wide range of opportunities available in this field .
Collectively , their experiences demonstrate that success as a golf influencer is not only about having a passion for the sport , but also about finding a personal voice and embracing the evolving nature of digital media . As they continue to impact the golf world , their stories inspire others to carve out their own paths and contribute to the sport in meaningful ways . vsga . org S EPTEMBER / O CTOBER 2024 | V IRGINIA G OLFER
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