MEET MICHAEL
A lifelong athlete and experienced professional golfer, Michael has spent decades inside competitive golf as both a player and coach. But his life has never been defined by one lane. He is also a public speaker, a master finishing carpenter, and a man deeply shaped by the outdoors — drawn to mountains, backpacking, fly fishing, skiing, and the kind of experiences that forge character rather than chase comfort.
Michael’s passion has always been teaching — not just swings or scores, but life. He believes the best lessons are learned through shared experience: on the course, in the workshop, on the trail, or around a fire at the end of a long day. Across every discipline he practices, the throughline is the same — presence, craftsmanship, patience, and integrity.
Michael believes success isn’t measured by money or status, but by the lives we impact, the skills we pass on, and the love we invest in others. The Fat Belly Tour exists to reflect that belief — proving that competition and purpose don’t have to be at odds, and that the game of golf can still shape men, strengthen families, and build something that lasts.
HOW THIS ALL STARTED
I didn’t set out to start a golf tour.
I set out to answer a question that’s followed me since I was sixteen — the year I lost a close friend to addiction. He reached out, but we were young and unequipped. I didn’t know how to help him, and I’ve carried that ever since.
Years later, I became a father — driven and consumed by golf — and I missed much of my daughter’s childhood. Then overseas, I worked with orphaned teens who were forced into adulthood at sixteen with no safety net. Many fell into addiction, trafficking, or survival at any cost. What I learned was simple: young people don’t fail because they lack talent — they fail because they lack guidance, structure, and belief.
I’ve seen those consequences in my own family too — fatherlessness, addiction, and a young life lost to depression and anxiety. These aren’t statistics to me. They’re real life.
These experiences have personally imprinted my life and have become the reason for the Dads With Lads and the Fat Belly Tour.
We’re building a national platform where men 50+ can compete — and where that competition is paired with camaraderie and purpose. Where golf becomes a gathering point for connection, mentorship, and belonging. Winning hearts, not just trophies.
We don’t need more programs. We need more presence. We need more mentorship. We need direction — especially for young men.
Thank you for taking a look at what we’re building. If this mission resonates with you, we’d be honored to have you participate in building this dream.
Michael Bruchet
Founder, The Fat Belly Tour & Dads With Lads
BUILDING A GAME FOR LIFE
THE FAT BELLY TOUR WAS BUILT AROUND A VISION MUCH BIGGER THAN GOLF.
As Dads With Lads grows, our deeper aim is to strengthen fathers and form boys into grounded young men. Build A Game For Life is our modern knighthood track— meaningful adventures that forge character, leadership, and a practical code of honor for real life.
Through outdoor adventure retreats—blending golf, fly fishing, backpacking, and woodworking—boys step into manhood with purpose, gaining practical skills, steady confidence, and the inner strength to lead.
The virtues we’re committed to forming:
Truth — Speak honestly, Keep your word.
Courage — Stand firm when fear rises
Honor — Choose the noble way, always
Self-Mastery — Rule yourself before you lead
Protection — Strength used to defend, not dominate
Justice — Set wrongs right with steady hands
Mercy — Hold strength with a gentle heart
Loyalty — Faithful to God, family, and brothers
Service — Take up the burden gladly.
Stewardship — Tend what is entrusted; leave it better.
Faith — Walk with God and live with purpose
Our mission is to raise the standard for men and boys—one adventure at a time
JOIN THE MOVEMENT
If this mission resonates with you, don’t just watch it grow—help build it.